Wrongful Termination Lawyers in D.C.

Being fired from your job can be a devastating experience—especially if you believe it happened for the wrong reasons. In Washington, D.C., workers are protected from termination based on discrimination, retaliation, or other unlawful motivations.

If you suspect that you were fired unjustly, The Mundaca Law Firm is here to help. We represent employees across the District of Columbia who have been wrongfully terminated, and we are committed to protecting your rights, your career, and your reputation.

What Is “Wrongful Termination” in D.C.?

Washington, D.C. follows the “at-will” employment doctrine, meaning employers can generally terminate employees at any time, with or without cause. However, there are important exceptions. A firing is considered wrongful or unlawful when it violates:

  • Anti-discrimination laws
  • Whistleblower protections
  • Public policy
  • Employment contracts
  • Retaliation prohibitions

Even at-will employees have legal rights. If your termination falls into one of these protected categories, you may have a valid wrongful termination claim.

Common Examples of Wrongful Termination

Here are some situations that may qualify as wrongful termination under D.C. or federal law:

1. Retaliation for Reporting Misconduct

Firing an employee for reporting harassment, discrimination, wage violations, or other unlawful activity is illegal. This includes:

  • Complaining to HR about harassment or bias
  • Reporting safety concerns or unethical conduct
  • Filing a workers’ compensation claim
  • Participating in a legal investigation or lawsuit

2. Discrimination-Based Termination

Employers cannot fire you based on protected characteristics, such as:

  • Race or color
  • Sex, sexual orientation, or gender identity
  • Pregnancy or family status
  • Age (40+)
  • Religion
  • National origin
  • Disability
  • Political affiliation or personal appearance (protected under D.C. law)

If your firing was influenced by bias or prejudice, it could violate the D.C. Human Rights Act (DCHRA) or federal civil rights laws.

3. Breach of Employment Contract

If you had a written employment agreement or offer letter that limited when or how you could be fired, and your employer ignored those terms, you may have a breach of contract claim.

4. Violation of Public Policy

It’s unlawful for an employer to fire someone for reasons that violate public policy. For example, you cannot be terminated for:

  • Serving on a jury
  • Voting or taking time off to vote
  • Refusing to engage in illegal activity
  • Taking protected family or medical leave

Legal Protections for D.C. Workers

Washington, D.C. offers some of the strongest workplace protections in the country. Workers are protected under:

  • D.C. Human Rights Act
  • D.C. Whistleblower Protection Act (for public sector employees)
  • Federal Civil Rights Laws (e.g., Title VII, ADA, ADEA, FMLA)
  • Employment contracts, policies, and handbooks

You may also be protected by collective bargaining agreements or union rules, depending on your industry.

What To Do If You Think You Were Wrongfully Terminated

If you were fired under suspicious or unfair circumstances, here’s what you can do:

  1. Gather Evidence
     Save emails, performance reviews, written warnings, or any documentation showing your work history or possible retaliation.
  2. Write Down What Happened
     Document key events, conversations, and any discriminatory or retaliatory behavior leading up to your termination.
  3. Consult an Employment Attorney
     An experienced wrongful termination lawyer can evaluate your case, explain your rights, and help you file a claim if appropriate.

At The Mundaca Law Firm, we provide honest, practical legal advice so you can make informed decisions about your next steps.

What You Might Be Entitled To

If you’ve been wrongfully terminated, you may be eligible for compensation, including:

  • Back pay for lost wages and benefits
  • Front pay if reinstatement is not an option
  • Emotional distress damages
  • Punitive damages in severe cases
  • Attorneys’ fees and legal costs
  • Reinstatement to your former job (in some cases)

Our firm is focused on helping you recover not just financially, but with your dignity intact.

How The Mundaca Law Firm Can Help

Wrongful termination cases are complex and fact-specific. Employers rarely admit to unlawful motives, which is why you need an attorney who can uncover the truth and build a strong case.

At The Mundaca Law Firm, we help clients by:

  • Conducting detailed case evaluations
  • Gathering evidence of unlawful conduct
  • Filing charges with the EEOC or D.C. Office of Human Rights
  • Negotiating favorable severance or settlement terms
  • Litigating in court when necessary

Whether you want to quietly resolve your dispute or hold your employer publicly accountable, we tailor our approach to your goals.

Don’t Let Unlawful Termination Go Unchallenged

Being fired unfairly can damage your finances, your career, and your confidence—but it doesn’t have to define your future. You have rights, and we’re here to enforce them.

If you believe you’ve been wrongfully terminated in Washington, D.C., contact The Mundaca Law Firm for experienced, compassionate representation. We’ll fight to hold your employer accountable and help you move forward.

Call Today for a Confidential Consultation

  • Phone: (202) 474-8500
  • Website: www.mundacalaw.com
  • Office: Washington, D.C.
  • Serving: Employees throughout the District of Columbia and surrounding areas