Legal Question in Employment Law in Washington

no reason for termination

i was terminated from my job for no reason. i asked what i did, and did not receive an answer. i was never warned, written up or spoken to about any wrongdoings. there is a current lawsuit going on with another former employee and i keep wondering if that is why i received my working papers, because i knew too much and was named for a deposition. now that i applied for unemployment, the person they placed in my positing is incorrectly filling out my paperwork, and raising questions if i am eligible. this is defacing my character. what are my legal rights against this employer?


Asked on 5/05/09, 10:46 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
Susan Beecher Susan L. Beecher, Atty at Law

Re: no reason for termination

First, about your unemployment compensation; if the employer has responded to Employment Security with an indication that you do not qualify, you should immediately appeal. The paperwork from ES will tell you how, but if you are unsure, an attorney can help you. (Don't just write a letter arguing back, ask for a hearing.) From what you have stated here, you should probably qualify for unemployment compensation, but if you don't formally appeal a decision against you, you won't get it. Also, the time period for appeal is very short, and if you miss it, you are out of luck, even if you would have otherwise qualified.

Regarding your termination, if you can show that the employer terminated you because of your willingness to testify in the lawsuit, you may possibly have recourse. There are many details that matter, and so I would urge you to review the facts with an employment law attorney to determine whether you have a case or not. Some will do an initial consultation without charge.

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Answered on 5/05/09, 11:53 am


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