There are many reasons why an employer may decide to terminate or demote an employee, but not all such actions taken by employers may be legal. If you feel you were the victim of wrongful termination or discrimination in the workplace, you may be able to take legal action against your employer.
Minnesota is an at-will employment state, meaning that employers can terminate employees for any reason within the law. It isn’t necessary for employers to give an employee two weeks notice (unless this was in a signed agreement or employment contract) nor are they required to give a reason for termination. However, according to the Minnesota Department of Labor & Industry, Statute 181.933 states that a terminated employee can send the former employer a written request for a reason within fifteen working days of termination, and the employer must respond truthfully within ten working days.
The Minnesota Human Rights Act makes it illegal for an employer to terminate or discriminate against an employee for a number of reasons, including religion, race, gender, sexual orientation, disability, age, sex, marital status, and more. An employer also cannot terminate an employee who reports or refuses to participate in an employer’s illegal activities or an employee who files a worker’s compensation claim.
If you lost your job but feel you were wrongfully terminated or you are facing other unfair or illegal workplace issues, you need the help of an experienced attorney who specializes in such cases. Contact us to discuss your particular case and learn about your rights.
DISCLAIMER: The information contained in this article does not constitute an attorney-client relationship. Please contact attorney Kirk Anderson for an initial consultation.