Losing your job is never easy, but when it happens under suspicious or unjust circumstances, it can be even more distressing
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Losing your job is never easy, but when it happens under suspicious or unjust circumstances, it can be even more distressing. While Nevada is an at-will employment state—meaning employers can terminate employees at any time for almost any reason—there are important exceptions. If your firing violates state or federal law, you may have grounds for a wrongful termination claim. Understanding your rights and when you can sue your employer is critical, and a skilled Las Vegas employment lawyer can help guide you through the process.
Wrongful termination occurs when an employer fires an employee in violation of legal protections or contractual obligations. Even in at-will states like Nevada, there are situations where firing an employee is considered illegal. If your termination falls into one of these protected categories, you may be able to take legal action and seek compensation.
1. Discrimination
Employers cannot fire an employee based on characteristics protected by law. Under federal and Nevada state law, it’s illegal to terminate someone because of:
Race or color
National origin
Sex or gender identity
Sexual orientation
Religion
Disability
Age (40 and older)
If you suspect your employer used one of these factors as a reason for your termination, a Las Vegas employment lawyer can help you gather evidence and file a claim with the Nevada Equal Rights Commission (NERC) or the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC).
2. Retaliation
You have the right to report illegal or unethical behavior in the workplace without fear of punishment. If you were fired after reporting harassment, discrimination, safety violations, wage issues, or other unlawful conduct, this could be considered retaliation—which is illegal.
Examples of protected activities include:
Reporting sexual harassment
Filing a workers’ compensation claim
Whistleblowing on unsafe or unlawful practices
Participating in an investigation of workplace misconduct
3. Breach of Contract
If you have an employment contract—written or implied—that outlines specific terms of employment (such as duration, termination clauses, or disciplinary procedures), your employer may not be able to fire you without following those terms. Terminating you in violation of a contract could give rise to a wrongful termination claim.
4. Violation of Public Policy
Nevada recognizes wrongful termination claims based on violations of public policy. This means an employer cannot fire you for reasons that go against established legal principles, such as:
Refusing to engage in illegal activity
Serving on a jury
Taking time off to vote
Reporting a crime
If your firing is linked to one of these actions, you may be entitled to legal recourse.
While every case is unique, here are some red flags that may indicate your termination was unlawful:
You were fired shortly after filing a complaint or reporting misconduct
You were let go after disclosing a medical condition or requesting accommodations
Your employer failed to follow internal disciplinary procedures or policies
You were singled out or treated differently than other employees in similar roles
If you notice any of these signs, don’t wait—consult with a Las Vegas employment lawyer as soon as possible to evaluate your situation.
If you believe you were wrongfully terminated, here are the steps you should take:
1. Document Everything – Keep copies of emails, performance reviews, employment contracts, and any communications related to your termination.
2. Request a Reason for Your Termination – While not required to provide one in at-will states, your employer may voluntarily state a reason, which could be helpful in your case.
3. File a Complaint with the EEOC or NERC – In most discrimination or retaliation cases, you must file a charge with one of these agencies before pursuing a lawsuit.
4. Contact an Experienced Employment Lawyer – A knowledgeable Las Vegas employment lawyer can evaluate your claim, help you understand your rights, and guide you through the legal process.
If your claim is successful, you may be entitled to:
Lost wages and benefits
Emotional distress damages
Punitive damages (in certain cases)
Reinstatement to your former job
Legal fees and court costs
While Nevada’s at-will employment doctrine gives employers broad discretion in hiring and firing decisions, it does not give them a free pass to break the law. If you were fired for a discriminatory reason, in retaliation for protected activity, or in breach of a contract or public policy, you may have a valid wrongful termination claim.
Consulting with a Las Vegas employment lawyer is the best way to protect your rights and determine whether you can sue your employer. Don’t navigate the complexities of employment law alone—get the legal support you need to pursue justice and fair compensation.
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