Indiana is a “right to work” state. That means both employers and employees have the right to end employment at any time and for any reason. However, there are important exceptions to this law.
The federal government protects all employees in the United States from being fired for a variety of reasons, including:
- Their race, religion, sex, or national origin
- Their age
- Their disability status, marital status, political affiliation, or sexual orientation
Employers are also forbidden from firing employees as a means of retaliation for whistleblowing or filing workers’ compensation claims. Despite federal laws protecting employees from wrongful termination, it still happens frequently in Indiana and throughout the country.
If you were unjustly terminated by your employer, there are two steps you can take:
- Notify the U.S. Department of Labor – The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) oversees the enforcement of federal employment laws. If you were terminated for a reason that violates any of those laws, the DOL may be able to help you.
- Contact an Indiana wrongful termination lawyer – You can also file a private claim against your employer with the help of an experienced law firm. At Stewart & Stewart, we know how to collect powerful evidence to prove a termination was unjust or even illegal.
When you’re out of work, you lose your paycheck and your livelihood. Don’t wait another day to get the representation you and your loved ones deserve. Call today for a free consultation.