There are a number of reasons a firing may be considered illegal, from discrimination to retaliation. Each firing is different and must be considered on its own merits. Some firings involve violating or potentially violating several aspects of the law, and require some extra scrutiny when preparing a wrongful termination case. Terminations that involve a violation of public policy fall into this category.
You may find that you were fired for refusing to do something illegal. This is not appropriate, and can be litigated. Such a termination might involve an employee being asked to report some aspect of his or her job inaccurately, or destroy documents that may incriminate the employer.
It is also possible that you may be fired for objecting to an employer doing something illegal, even if you are not asked or pressured to actively participate. This kind of firing is very similar to retaliatory firing, which is certainly illegal. If you are considering blowing the whistle on your employer, you most certainly will want to consult with an attorney before doing so, to ensure your utmost safety in the process.
You may also find that you have been fired for exercising a right that you legally possess. If, for instance, you are asked to work excessively long hours without a rest, or if you take a family leave that you should be allowed, and do so even though your request was denied, you may be protected under the law.
No matter what the specifics of your circumstances may be, it is vital to get the legal help that you need. With professional legal guidance, you can evaluate the details of your experience and ensure that your rights remain protected as you pursue justice.
Source: Weiler Law PLLC, “Wrongful Termination,” accessed March 09, 2017