Wrongful Termination Attorneys in Virginia

Being terminated from your job can be devastating—especially when you suspect it was unjust or illegal. Virginia is an “at-will” employment state, which means employers can generally fire employees for any reason, or no reason at all. But there are clear exceptions under both federal and state law.

If you were fired in violation of your legal rights, you may have a wrongful termination claim. The attorneys at The Mundaca Law Firm are experienced in identifying unlawful firings and helping Virginia workers fight back.

What Is Wrongful Termination in Virginia?

Wrongful termination occurs when an employee is fired for an illegal reason, such as discrimination, retaliation, or refusing to break the law. Even in an at-will state like Virginia, employers cannot fire workers for reasons that violate public policy or specific legal protections.

Common examples of wrongful termination include:

  • Retaliation for reporting harassment, discrimination, or unsafe conditions
  • Discrimination based on race, sex, age, disability, religion, national origin, pregnancy, or sexual orientation
  • Firing for taking protected leave under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
  • Termination after requesting accommodations for a disability or pregnancy
  • Refusal to engage in illegal acts at the employer’s request
  • Reporting wage theft or violations of employment laws

If you were terminated under suspicious or retaliatory circumstances, you may have grounds to pursue legal action.

Key Laws That Protect Virginia Employees

Several federal and state laws protect workers in Virginia from being wrongfully fired:

Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964

Prohibits termination based on race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), or national origin.

Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)

Prohibits firing based on disability and requires employers to provide reasonable accommodations.

Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA)

Protects workers age 40 and older from termination due to age.

Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)

Grants eligible employees up to 12 weeks of job-protected leave for certain medical and family reasons.

Virginia Human Rights Act (VHRA)

Expands protections against wrongful termination, including pregnancy-related accommodations and retaliation for reporting discrimination.

Virginia Public Policy Doctrine

Virginia courts recognize limited exceptions to at-will employment, such as when an employee is fired for:

  • Reporting illegal activities
  • Exercising a statutory right (e.g., filing a workers’ comp claim)
  • Refusing to perform unlawful acts

What to Do If You’ve Been Wrongfully Terminated

If you believe your firing was illegal, taking the following steps can strengthen your potential claim:

  1. Document Everything: Keep emails, performance reviews, write-ups, and any communications leading up to your termination.
  2. Request Your Personnel File: You may be entitled to review your employment records.
  3. File a Complaint: You may need to file with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or the Virginia Office of Civil Rights before bringing a lawsuit.
  4. Speak With an Attorney: An experienced employment lawyer can evaluate your case and determine your legal options.

Why Choose The Mundaca Law Firm

At The Mundaca Law Firm, we are dedicated to protecting the rights of employees throughout Virginia. Wrongful termination cases can be complex, but we have the knowledge and experience to navigate both federal and state employment laws.

Our Services Include:

  • Legal Evaluation: We carefully assess the facts of your termination to determine whether your employer violated the law.
  • Filing EEOC or State Complaints: We manage the process and deadlines for filing the appropriate administrative charges.
  • Negotiation: We fight for favorable settlements, including reinstatement, back pay, and other compensation.
  • Litigation: When necessary, we aggressively represent clients in court to pursue justice.

We take a client-focused approach—offering personal attention, clear communication, and honest advice at every step.

Possible Legal Remedies for Wrongful Termination

If you win a wrongful termination case, you may be entitled to:

  • Lost wages and benefits
  • Reinstatement or front pay
  • Compensation for emotional distress
  • Punitive damages (in egregious cases)
  • Attorney’s fees and court costs

You Don’t Have to Accept an Unfair Firing

Losing your job unlawfully can disrupt your livelihood and your future. But you don’t have to face it alone. At The Mundaca Law Firm, we stand up for wrongfully terminated employees throughout Virginia—and we’re ready to help you understand and assert your rights.

Schedule a Confidential Consultation Today

Let us help you determine whether your termination was unlawful—and if so, what you can do about it.