What Type of Attorney Handles Wrongful Termination?
If you’ve recently lost your job and believe you were fired illegally, you may be wondering what kind of attorney you need to contact. Wrongful termination is a serious matter—and not every lawyer is equipped to handle these complex cases. The right legal help can make all the difference in proving your claim and securing the compensation you deserve.
In this article, we’ll explore what type of attorney handles wrongful termination, what they do, and how working with experienced wrongful termination lawyers in Maryland can help you protect your rights.
Understanding Wrongful Termination
Before we dive into legal specialties, it’s helpful to understand what “wrongful termination” means. At-will employment is the norm in Maryland and most other states, meaning employers can fire employees at any time, for nearly any reason—or no reason at all. However, there are important exceptions.
Wrongful termination occurs when an employee is fired for reasons that violate:
- Federal or state anti-discrimination laws
- Public policy protections (e.g., firing someone for taking family leave or serving on a jury)
- Whistleblower protections
- Employment contracts or company policies
- Retaliation laws (e.g., firing someone for reporting harassment or unsafe working conditions)
If your firing involved any of these issues, you may have a valid wrongful termination claim—and you’ll want to contact a very specific type of attorney.
What Kind of Lawyer Handles Wrongful Termination Cases?
The type of lawyer who handles wrongful termination cases is called an employment lawyer, specifically one who focuses on employee rights and workplace disputes.
Employment lawyers may represent either employees or employers, but if you believe you were wrongfully terminated, you’ll want an attorney who regularly represents employees in claims involving:
- Discrimination (race, gender, disability, age, etc.)
- Retaliation
- Harassment
- FMLA violations
- Breach of employment contract
- Whistleblower retaliation
- Wage and hour disputes (in some cases)
These attorneys are skilled in both state and federal labor laws, understand how to evaluate employer conduct, and know how to build strong cases based on documentation, witness statements, and employment history.
What Can a Wrongful Termination Lawyer Do for You?
A wrongful termination lawyer provides crucial support throughout every step of your case. Here’s what they typically handle:
1. Evaluate Your Case
The attorney will review the details of your employment, performance, and termination to determine whether your firing violated the law. This may include examining emails, performance reviews, written policies, contracts, and witness accounts.
2. File Administrative Complaints
In many cases, you must first file a complaint with a government agency like the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or Maryland Commission on Civil Rights before taking legal action. Your attorney will handle these filings and meet all critical deadlines.
3. Negotiate a Settlement
Many wrongful termination cases are resolved out of court through negotiations. A skilled attorney can engage with your former employer’s legal team to secure compensation for lost wages, emotional distress, and more.
4. Litigate in Court
If a settlement isn’t possible, your attorney can represent you in court. They’ll present your case, cross-examine witnesses, and work to prove that your termination was unlawful.
Why You Need a Maryland-Based Employment Lawyer
Labor laws vary by state, so it’s essential to work with an attorney who understands the specific protections offered under Maryland law. Local attorneys are also familiar with regional courts, judges, and legal procedures that may impact your case.
If you’re looking for knowledgeable and supportive wrongful termination lawyers in Maryland, Mundaca Law offers the experience and focus you need. They help employees navigate difficult situations and fight for justice when employers break the law.
How to Choose the Right Attorney
When searching for a wrongful termination attorney, look for:
- Experience in employment law, specifically on behalf of employees
- Track record of successful outcomes in similar cases
- Clear communication and responsiveness
- Understanding of both federal and Maryland-specific employment laws
- A client-focused approach, not just quick settlements
Many employment attorneys offer free or low-cost consultations, so don’t hesitate to reach out and discuss your situation. A good lawyer will help you understand your rights and your chances of success.
Final Thoughts
If you believe you were fired illegally, don’t wait—wrongful termination claims have strict time limits, and valuable evidence can disappear quickly. The right type of attorney for your case is a wrongful termination lawyer, ideally one with deep experience representing employees in Maryland.
They can help you pursue lost wages, emotional damages, and potentially even punitive compensation if your employer acted maliciously or in bad faith.
The team at Mundaca Law is here to help. As experienced wrongful termination lawyers in Maryland, they’ll guide you every step of the way and fight to hold your employer accountable.