Washington D.C. Wrongful Termination Lawyers Litigate Firing Disputes
Determined attorneys effectively represent employers and employees in unlawful discharge cases
As a general rule, American law doesn’t prohibit either employers or employees from severing their employment relationship at will. However, there are circumstances in which it’s illegal for an employer to fire a worker. Potential awards in wrongful termination cases can include back pay and other relief, so it is important for both employer and employee to have effective legal representation. At Cashdan & Kane, PLLC in Washington, D.C., our wrongful termination attorneys are ready to provide high-quality advice and advocacy to parties on either side of these disputes.
What is wrongful termination?
Wrongful termination is any firing that was motivated by a reason prohibited by law. Generally, the employer will cite an apparently proper reason for the termination, so proving wrongful termination often requires showing that the stated reason is only a pretext or that the employer singled out the plaintiff for discharge in circumstances in which it did not dismiss others. We investigate the facts at hand to determine the true justification of the firing and build as strong a case as possible to support our client’s position.
Exceptions to the at-will employment rules
Although the at-will doctrine generally permits employers to discharge employees for no reason at all in the District, DC employment law recognizes exceptions to this rule. A termination cannot result from one of the following situations:
- Discrimination against someone in a legally protected group
- Retaliation for reporting workplace misconduct
- Exercise of one’s family and medical leave rights
- Refusal to commit illegal acts
- Violation of rights established in the worker’s employment agreement
If you are an employer, these exceptions can create problems even if you have a legitimate reason for terminating an employee, especially if you don’t create a record to substantiate the basis for the dismissal. We can advise you on how to minimize the likelihood of unlawful termination claims and represent you if one does arise. If you are an employee, we can advise you whether you have a case for wrongful termination and seek an appropriate remedy if you do.
How to sue for wrongful termination in the District of Columbia
Regardless of the specific nature of your claim, you have a right to bring a private lawsuit for damages and other relief, but DC has a one-year statute of limitations for wrongful termination cases, so the sooner you act, the better. You can also file an administrative proceeding with the District’s Equal Employment Opportunity Commission or Office of Human Rights. In either case, your first step is to consult with a lawyer to determine if you have been the victim of wrongful termination. If you were wrongly fired, our attorneys will pursue justice for you in a timely manner.
Why should you hire Cashdan & Kane?
Hiring an accomplished employment lawyer is critical to resolving a wrongful termination claim successfully. Our DC wrongful termination attorneys will evaluate your case, explain your options and develop a strategy to achieve your objectives. We will represent you vigorously in negotiations, and administrative proceeding or litigation. Whichever side you are on, we will use our legal knowledge and experience to strengthen your argument.
Contact a skilled wrongful termination attorney for assistance in Washington, D.C.
Cashdan & Kane, PLLC advises and represents Washington D.C. employees and employers in wrongful termination claims. Please call our DC office at 908-264-9331 or contact us online to schedule an appointment. We also have offices in Westfield, Newark and Jersey City, New Jersey.
