If you have been a victim of wrongful termination in Connecticut, you can pursue a wrongful termination claim against your employer.
Although Connecticut is an “at will” state, which means you can be fired for just about any reason, but employees have basic rights under both state and federal employment laws. Here is a closer look at wrongful termination in Connecticut and how to pursue a claim against your employer for wrongfully terminating you.
What Are My Rights For Wrongful Termination In Connecticut?
Under Connecticut wrongful termination laws, it is illegal for an employer in Connecticut to terminate or fire an employee or end their employment contract for any of these reasons – disability, pregnancy, gender, race, age, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, or the employee refused to violate law despite the request of the employer.
You cannot be fired for free speech or assembly, taking leave through the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), retaliation for filing a worker’s compensation claim or for reporting unethical or illegal actions. It is also illegal when an employee is fired in breach of his or her employment contract.
Who Is Protected From Wrongful Termination In Connecticut?
Most employment laws apply to employers who have 15 or more workers. If it involves age, it is applicable to employers with 20 or more workers. Some laws apply to all employers.
You will need to maintain thorough documentation and supporting evidence that backs up your claim. While employers do have the right to fire employees without providing cause, there are laws that do protect workers. You will need your employee handbook, employment contract, and any other documentation that you can provide that will back up your claim.
Suing For Wrongful Termination In Connecticut
In Connecticut, you only have 180 days from the date of the incident to pursue a wrongful termination claim against your employer. You can file a state claim with the Connecticut Commission on Human Rights and Opportunities (CHRO) or a federal claim with the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). If you do not file your claim in a timely manner, it will be dismissed.
You will need to provide supporting evidence and documentation to support your claim. You can get your claim underway by visiting the CHRO website or by visiting the EEOC website. You can file a claim with one agency and ask them to share it with the other agency, so they can both conduct an investigation into your claim at the same time.
Enlisting Legal Representation
If you have been the victim of Connecticut wrongful termination, you should enlist the help of a knowledgeable wrongful termination attorney who is familiar with the applicable state and federal employment laws. Some wrongful termination lawyers take cases on a contingency basis while others will require a retainer and an hourly rate. Gather the supporting evidence and documentation your claim needs to get on the right track. Complete the Free Case Evaluation Form on this page to share the details with a lawyer in your area.
