Employment Lawyers in Parkersburg, WV
Standing up for the rights of West Virginia's employees
Jobs are precious, especially in today’s faltering economy. So important is the peace of mind that comes from knowing you can feed your family and keep a roof over their heads. Unfortunately, an employer caught up in the corporate mentality to cut expenses no matter how, can fire, terminate or dismiss you at the drop of a hat. As companies merge, downsize, or look to cut costs, increasing numbers of workers are at risk for being wrongfully terminated.
In West Virginia, unless you have an employment contract, you are considered an “at will” employee. This means that you can be terminated or fired for any reason, unless that reason violates public policy. However, the reason (or motivating factor) behind your termination must be a valid one.
It is improper for an employer to fire an employee for actions such as:
- Filing a Worker's Compensation claim
- Reporting sexual harassement or filing a sexual harassment complaint
- Reporting or complaining about a safety violation or workplace safety
- Because of age, sex, race or religion
- Reporting illegal activity by your employer to the authorities
If you believe the reason given for your termination was simply a pretext, or excuse, you might have a claim for wrongful termination by retaliatory discharge. An employer who wrongfully fires, discharges or terminates an employee may be subject to a range of remedies, such as paying that employee their economic damages, including back pay and front pay, unpaid benefits, reinstatement to their job (if appropriate), punitive damages for bad conduct, or payment of your attorney fees. Which remedy or remedies that are available depend, of course, upon the particular facts and circumstances of each case.
Securing justice for wrongful terminations in Parkersburg, WV
Goldenberg, Goldenberg & Stealey have successfully prosecuted employment cases in both state and federal courts. If you believe you have been wrongfully fired or terminated, call 800-516-7017 or contact Goldenberg, Goldenberg & Stealey, PLLC online immediately to protect your rights and yourself. We represent individuals throughout West Virginia.
