You might already know that there are various laws surrounding the reasons that companies are allowed to fire employees. For example, employees are protected from being fired because of an aspect of their identity, such as their race or gender, because of our discrimination laws. Almost all states (including Georgia) use the principle called “employment-at-will”. This rule allows employers to fire their employees for any reason (with some exceptions) or no reason at all. If you’re an employee in Georgia, you might wonder what could happen if you’re unexpectantly terminated from your position. No need to worry because our knowledgeable law firm has the answers you’re looking for! Continue reading this blog to learn more about this topic. You may also speak with an Atlanta Wrongful Termination Attorney who can provide individualized legal counseling.

WHAT DOES EMPLOYMENT-AT-WILL MEAN IN GEORGIA’S EMPLOYMENT LAWS?

“Employment-at-will” essentially means that your employer can legally fire you at any time, except for some specified reasons. Employers cannot fire employees because of an aspect of their personal identity or because the employee acted as a whistleblower. Otherwise, employers can dismiss their workers with no explanation. However, terminated employees also have the right to ask why they’re being fired, and employers must provide a reason or multiple reasons for their termination.

WHAT ARE THE MOST COMMON EXAMPLES OF WRONGFUL TERMINATION?

Georgia’s employment laws specify that employees are protected from termination for unlawful reasons. The most common examples of wrongful termination in Georgia occur when:

• An employee is discriminated against on the basis of age, race/ethnicity, gender, orientation, nationality, religion, etc.
• The employer retaliates against an employee who acted as a whistleblower against their company
• The employer retaliates against an employee who reported them for an instance of discrimination

If you think you might be a victim of wrongful termination, reach out to an employment lawyer as soon as possible. A lawyer will be able to evaluate your case to see if you can file a claim against your former employer. Keep in mind that proving a case of wrongful termination can be difficult. This is because employers can claim that they had another reason for terminating someone.

Has your employer recently fired you for an unlawful reason? If so, you might be seeking a trusted employment law attorney who can help you determine your best options going forward. Look no further because our highly experienced legal team is on your side every step of the way! Contact Ben Barrett Law today for an initial consultation.