Seek Justice After A Wrongful Termination

Employers can have many reasons for firing an employee, including incompetence, attendance issues, theft or other criminal activity, or insubordination. However, there are certain reasons that employers cannot use to fire you. If you are wrongfully terminated, what should you do?

The first thing you should do is call an employee rights attorney. My name is Rod Bridgers of the Law Office of Rod Bridgers, LLLC, and I have been representing clients across Hawaii for more than 40 years. I know your rights as an employee, and I know how to defend them.

How Can You Be Wrongfully Terminated?

It is essential to understand when it is illegal for an employer to fire you. Some of the more common examples include:

• Employment discrimination: If your employer fired you because of your race, sex, sexual orientation, gender, marital status, religion, nation of origin or pregnancy, they discriminated against you.
• Refusal to violate the law: Your employer cannot ask you to perform illegal activities and fire you if you refuse to engage in them.
• Retaliation (whistleblowing activities): An employer cannot legally retaliate against an employee who has reported a workplace violation.

If you believe you were fired because of these, breach of employment contract or other illegal circumstances, contact my office immediately. As a seasoned employment lawyer, I will thoroughly gather key evidence to support your wrongful termination claim. Hold the liable party accountable for their actions.

Frequently Asked Questions About Wrongful Termination

You may have many questions about your rights, the legal system and the options at your disposal. I use my 40-plus years of experience to provide answers and insights. Here are a few of the questions clients bring most often.

How can I prove that my termination was wrongful?

You may have direct evidence, such as statements from a supervisor about why you are being fired. You may also have indirect evidence, such as a pattern of behavior – like an employer who terminates all pregnant employees, showing clear discrimination. You may also have been fired in violation of the terms of your contract.

What is the statute of limitations for filing a wrongful termination claim in Hawaii?

There are two potential statutes. First off, if you want to file your claim with the Hawaii Civil Rights Commission (HCRC), then you have only 180 days to do so. If you are going to file with the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), then you have slightly longer, as the statute of limitations is 300 days. Either way, acting quickly is important with a valid case.

How long does it typically take to resolve a wrongful termination case?

If the case is simple, especially if it is settled out of court, it may only take a few months. If the case does go to court and/or if it is more complex, then it can take years. Every case is unique, and having experienced legal guidance can help you get through it as quickly as possible.

What should I expect during my initial consultation with an employment attorney?

The initial consultation is a chance for you to explain your case and for the attorney to decide if it has merit. You will have a chance to tell your side of the story. You can also present any potential evidence, such as email messages, text messages, witness statements from other employees and the like.

What should I do if I witness wrongful termination happening to a colleague?

If someone else has been wrongfully terminated, you may not be able to prevent it, but they may ask you for a statement if they start a wrongful termination case. Many of these cases involve multiple employees – such as a group of employees who were all “laid off” even though they are in the same protected class (race, religion, gender, age, disability, etc.).

Let Me Fight For You

You deserve an attorney who is compassionate to your cause and has the skills necessary to defend you and your best interests. When you are looking for the representation that is right for you, consider choosing the attorney to whom Hawaii turns for help.

Call my office at 808-796-5650 or contact me online to schedule your initial consultation. I look forward to representing you through even the most challenging legal matters swiftly and efficiently.