Unexpected job loss can be very frustrating, especially when it’s due to wrongful termination. Unless you have enough emergency funds to support yourself until you find a new work, you may have to live on a tight budget. Filing a lawsuit can be intimidating and costly, so it’s normal to be hesitant. However, a successful wrongful termination case may offer other benefits besides financial compensation.
Wrongful termination applies when an employer illegally fires an employee. This often occurs for discriminatory reasons or as retaliation for whistleblowing. It can also happen when the employer violates an employment contract or public policy.
The effects of wrongful termination can be devastating. It can lead to financial hardship, hurt a person’s career prospects and cause emotional distress. Pursuing legal action may be worth the price if you want to seek justice or stand up for your rights.
Benefits of filing a wrongful termination lawsuit
Settlement amounts in wrongful termination cases can vary widely depending on several criteria. They can go as high as millions of dollars to a small but still significant amount of $5,000.
Nevertheless, even a small amount of financial compensation is helpful when money is tight after losing a job. A wrongful termination settlement could pay for the following:
- Lost wages or the amount of money you would’ve earned if your employer did not illegally fire you.
- The cost of replacing lost benefits, such as health insurance, dental, pensions or other employee perks that were part of your contract
- Out-of-pocket expenses that you spent looking for a new job
- Emotional distress, if you had to endure working in a hostile environment before your firing
Filing a wrongful termination case may provide you with financial and emotional solace. If you’re struggling to make ends meet, the reimbursement and financial awards can provide you a huge relief.
Moreover, a wrongful termination settlement could put to rest any self-doubt or bad feelings you have over being dismissed. Knowing that you did nothing wrong, and your former employer now owes you money can feel validating.