Employers have the right to dismiss an employee who is not meeting the expectations of the job or who violates written guidelines. However, some employees lose their jobs for reasons that have nothing to do with how they do their job, whether they followed the rules or even the business needs of the company. Those who sign at-will agreements at the start of their employment may be terminated for any reason except one that is illegal. If you were dismissed from your job for an illegal reason, an Employment Lawyer in Houston can defend your rights.
An employer cannot fire an employee because they have a disability. This is true whether you reported the disability to your employer or they found out about it through your medical records. It is also illegal to terminate an employee for any other discriminatory reason. Your employer can’t fire you because they think you are too old and they prefer to have a younger workforce as long as you are physically and mentally able to do the job.
Employees who complain about discrimination or unsafe work conditions are often seen as a liability to their employer. Understandably, they don’t want employees who already got them into trouble with government agencies working in the office. However, it is illegal to fire a worker in retaliation for a report they made regarding sexual harassment, a safety violation or discrimination. As much as they may not like it, employers cannot dismiss a whistleblower.
Be sure to read your employee handbook to ensure you haven’t violated any rules. Most employment contracts are at-will, meaning they can be terminated by either party at any time without reason. This gives you the right to quit and also gives your employer the right to fire you. Accepting at-will employment does not mean that you give up your right to be treated fairly. If you think your employer terminated you for any illegal reason, talk to an Employment Lawyer in Houston right away to ensure you understand your rights and you protect your right to sue your employer to recover lost wages and benefits for the time you are without work. For more information visit The Law Offices of Filteau & Sullivan
