Wrongful Termination in Harrisburg: Do You Have a Legal Case?

Getting fired is never easy, but being terminated unfairly or unlawfully adds another layer of stress and uncertainty. While Pennsylvania is an “at-will” employment state, that doesn’t mean employers can fire workers for just any reason. If you believe your termination was wrongful, it’s worth exploring whether you have a legal case.

Our Harrisburg labor and employment lawyer helps employees understand their workplace rights and takes legal action when employers cross the line. Find out what counts as wrongful termination in Dauphin County and whether you have a case.

What Counts as Wrongful Termination in Harrisburg?

Under Pennsylvania’s at-will employment doctrine, employers can terminate employees at any time, for any reason, or even for no reason, unless doing so violates a specific law or public policy.

Not every unfair or abrupt firing qualifies as wrongful termination under the law. However, legal protections may apply if it involves:

• Discrimination due to race, gender, age, disability, religion, or national origin (violates federal laws like Title VII or the ADA);
• Retaliation for reporting illegal conduct, workplace safety violations, or filing a workers’ compensation claim;
• Termination that breaches an employment contract or a collective bargaining agreement;
• Firing for refusing to engage in illegal activities;
• Violation of public policy, such as terminating someone for serving jury duty or taking protected medical leave.

These protections come from both federal laws (such as the Civil Rights Act, FMLA, and the ADA) and Pennsylvania laws enforced by agencies like the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission (PHRC) and the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC).

How to Know If You Have a Case: Key Signs Of Wrongful Termination In Harrisburg

Not every firing feels fair, but certain red flags may suggest your termination was illegal. If you suspect wrongful termination, preserving all associated documentation and getting legal help as soon as possible can protect your rights in a claim.

Warning signs that your termination may have been unlawful include:

• You got fired shortly after filing a complaint or requesting medical leave.
• You were treated differently from your coworkers after disclosing a medical condition.
• You received strong performance reviews, then got terminated without explanation.
• You were let go soon after reporting harassment or discrimination.
• Your employer made comments that suggest bias or retaliation.

A successful claim often hinges on proving intent, such as showing that a stated reason (such as “downsizing” or “performance issues”) was a pretext for illegal motives.

Request A Consultation With Our Harrisburg Labor And Employment Lawyer

If you were recently fired and believe it was for an unlawful reason, don’t assume you have no options. At Ira H. Weinstock, P.C., we’ve been advocating for Pennsylvania workers for decades. Our experienced Harrisburg labor and employment lawyer can evaluate the circumstances of your termination, advise you of your rights, and help you determine whether you have a case worth pursuing.

Time limits apply in wrongful termination claims, especially those involving federal or state discrimination laws. Give our office a call or contact us online today and schedule a confidential consultation to get the justice you deserve.

Sources:

dced.pa.gov/business-assistance/international/trade/labor-workforce/

usa.gov/wrongful-termination