The workplace is supposed to be a place of professionalism. Unfortunately, some employers and employees don’t see it this way, and as a result, they will discriminate, sexually harass, or otherwise create hostile work environments. If you are a victim of workplace discrimination, harassment, or another type of unacceptable workplace conduct, you may wonder if reporting the incident(s) to the EEOC or the Virginia Office of Civil Rights (OCR) will result in you getting fired from your position within a company. Please continue reading and reach out to our dedicated Midlothian employment attorney to learn more about your rights and whether you may risk getting fired by filing an EEOC or OCR complaint.
Can my employer fire me if I file a complaint with the EEOC or OCR?
Despite the fact that your employer may try to fire you for filing a complaint of discrimination or harassment with either of these agencies, it is illegal to do so under both federal and state law. This means that legally, you cannot get fired for reporting an injustice in the workplace to either the EEOC or OCR. In fact, if you are fired for doing so, it is known as “retaliation,” or “wrongful termination.”
Essentially, the law states that employers are prohibited from firing employees for reporting workplace injustices, and if you are fired or otherwise retaliated against for doing so (such as having your pay docked or being demoted) you will likely have a retaliation or wrongful termination claim against your employer.
What should I do if I believe I’m a victim of retaliation in the workplace?
If you think you are a victim of workplace retaliation, meaning you believe you were fired or otherwise punished for reporting wrongdoing in the workplace, you should strongly consider hiring a competent attorney at once. Our firm can assess the circumstances of your termination or retaliation, determine whether your employer violated the law, and, from there, pursue a claim for damages against your employer.
Ensure you speak with an employment lawyer as soon after the incident(s) occurred as you can, as there is a relatively short timeframe in which you are required to file your claim. Waiting too long can permanently relinquish your right to bring a claim at all.
If you would like to learn more or wish to get started, simply contact Passero Employment Law today so we can listen to your story and get working on your claim.
