Accusations of Wrongful Termination in Illinois

 Posted on March 25, 2024 in Employment Law

Letting an employee go is never comfortable, even if the employee has committed blatant infractions that require you to terminate him or her. However, that situation can quickly become a legal nightmare if the employee accuses you of wrongful termination. If this has happened to you, contacting an Illinois employment law attorney is important. In the meantime, the following are some steps you can consider.

Respond Promptly and Professionally

You should respond promptly and professionally upon receiving notice of the wrongful termination accusation. Ignoring or dismissing the accusation could exacerbate the situation and damage the company's reputation. Instead, acknowledge the accusation, express willingness to address the concerns, and outline the steps being taken to investigate the matter.

Review Your Employment Agreement and Company Policies

The first step is to thoroughly review the employment agreement if one exists, and company policies to determine whether the termination violated any contractual obligations or company procedures. Understanding the terms under which the employee was hired and any applicable termination policies is essential in assessing the accusation's validity.

Conduct an Internal Investigation

If the accusation appears credible or if there are concerns about potential legal repercussions, you should conduct an internal investigation into the circumstances surrounding the termination. This investigation may involve gathering relevant documentation, interviewing witnesses, and examining the employee's performance and behavior leading to the termination.

Consult with an Attorney

As mentioned above, it is crucial for employers facing wrongful termination accusations to seek advice from experienced employment law attorneys. Your attorney can provide guidance about your rights and responsibilities, help assess the strength of the accusation, and develop a strategy for responding to the allegation effectively.

Maintain All Documentation and Communication Records

Throughout the process, it is crucial to maintain thorough documentation of all relevant communications, including emails, memos, and meeting notes related to this accusation. Clear and comprehensive documentation can be invaluable in defending against this accusation and demonstrating that the termination was justified and lawful.

Implement Corrective Measures if Needed

If the internal investigation reveals any shortcomings or errors in the termination process, you should take appropriate corrective measures to prevent similar issues from arising in the future. This may involve updating company policies, providing additional training to managers and supervisors, or implementing new procedures for handling terminations.

Contact an Illinois Employment Law Attorney

If a former employee has accused your company of wrongful termination, it is in your best interest to be proactive in your reaction. Do not delay contacting The Miller Law Firm, P.C. to find out your legal options. Call 847-995-1205 to schedule a free consultation with experienced Schaumburg, IL employment lawyer Richard J. Miller.