wrongful termination checklist

Documentation and Evidence

Gather all relevant documents related to your employment (employment contract, termination letter, performance evaluations, emails, etc.)

Make copies or scan all documents for safekeeping

Prepare a timeline of events leading up to the termination, including dates, conversations, and any incidents that may be relevant

Collect any written or electronic evidence that supports your claim, such as emails, text messages, or company policies

Review Employment Laws and Policies

Familiarize yourself with federal, state, and local employment laws regarding wrongful termination

Review your employment contract, employee handbook, or any other relevant company policies

Identify any clauses or policies that may have been violated during the termination process

Assess Termination Circumstances

Evaluate the reasons provided by your employer for the termination

Determine if any discriminatory factors (race, gender, age, disability, etc.) were involved

Analyze if the termination violated any contractual agreements or company policies

Consider if there were any retaliation motives for your termination (e.g., whistleblowing, filing a complaint)

Consult Legal Advice

Seek legal counsel specialized in employment law or wrongful termination

Schedule a consultation with an attorney to review your case and receive professional advice

Discuss the potential legal actions you can take and the strength of your case

File a Complaint or Lawsuit

Decide whether to pursue a complaint with a government agency (Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, state labor department, etc.)

If applicable, file a complaint within the designated timeframe and follow the agency's guidelines for filing

Determine if you have grounds for a lawsuit and discuss this with your attorney

If you decide to proceed with a lawsuit, ensure you comply with all legal requirements and deadlines

Organize Witnesses and Gather Testimonials

Identify potential witnesses who can support your case (coworkers, supervisors, clients, etc.)

Contact witnesses and explain the situation, asking if they would be willing to provide a statement or testify on your behalf

Document their contact information and keep track of their willingness to support your case

Preserve Your Finances

Evaluate your financial situation and consider how the termination has impacted your income and expenses

Create a budget to manage your finances during the legal process

Keep records of any financial losses resulting from the termination (lost wages, benefits, etc.)

Consult with your attorney on potential damages you might be entitled to

Maintain Professionalism and Confidentiality

Avoid discussing the details of your case with current or former colleagues without the advice of your attorney

Keep any sensitive information or evidence confidential to prevent potential harm to your case

Maintain professionalism during all interactions related to your termination, including job interviews, networking events, and social media presence

Note: This checklist serves as a general guideline and should not substitute for professional legal advice. Each situation may vary, and it is crucial to consult with an attorney to understand the specific steps and actions needed in your case.