Losing your job is stressful under any circumstances, but when you believe you’ve been unfairly dismissed, the experience can be particularly distressing. Wrongful termination occurs when an employer breaches employment laws or a contract when dismissing an employee. If you suspect your dismissal was unjust, it’s important to understand your rights and the steps you can take to protect yourself. Seeking advice from employment lawyers is often the first step towards resolving the situation and potentially securing compensation or reinstatement. Here are five tips for dealing with or launching a wrongful termination dispute.

Understand What Constitutes Wrongful Termination

Before taking action, it’s important to determine whether your dismissal was, in fact, wrongful. In Australia, wrongful termination typically refers to a breach of contract or unlawful dismissal under the Fair Work Act. This can include being fired due to discrimination, retaliation for whistleblowing or without the proper notice outlined in your employment contract.

Keep in mind that not all unfair dismissals are considered wrongful under the law. For instance, being let go due to poor performance or redundancy may be lawful if proper procedures are followed. Employment lawyers can help assess the circumstances of your dismissal and determine if your employer has acted unlawfully.

Gather Documentation & Evidence

If you believe you’ve been wrongfully terminated, start by collecting all relevant documents. This includes your employment contract, performance reviews, emails, text messages, payslips and any written communication relating to your dismissal. Detailed records can be invaluable when building your case. Write down a timeline of events leading up to your termination, noting any incidents that may support your claim, such as complaints made to HR, changes in treatment after raising concerns or discriminatory remarks. Employment lawyers will use this information to assess the strength of your case and guide you on the best course of action.

Seek Legal Advice Promptly

Time is critical when dealing with wrongful termination. In most cases, you have just 21 days from the date of dismissal to lodge an unfair dismissal claim with the Fair Work Commission. Consulting with experienced employment lawyers as soon as possible ensures you won’t miss this window. A lawyer can explain your options, including whether you may be entitled to compensation, reinstatement or other remedies. They can also represent you in negotiations or legal proceedings, giving you the best chance of a favourable outcome.

Consider Alternative Dispute Resolution

Litigation can be time-consuming and costly, so it’s worth exploring alternative methods of resolving your dispute. Mediation or conciliation through the Fair Work Commission allows both parties to discuss the issue with the help of an impartial facilitator. This process can often lead to a mutually agreeable resolution without the need for a formal hearing. Employment lawyers can assist you in preparing for mediation and ensure your interests are represented throughout the process.

Protect Your Future Employment Prospects

While it’s important to address a wrongful termination, it’s equally vital to think about your future. Avoid speaking negatively about your former employer publicly, as this could harm your professional reputation. Focus on finding new opportunities and consider how you can frame your departure in a professional and truthful way during interviews. If you’ve engaged employment lawyers, they may be able to negotiate a positive reference or a neutral statement of service as part of your settlement.

Final Thoughts

Being wrongfully dismissed is never easy, but understanding your rights and taking prompt, informed action can make a significant difference. With the support of skilled employment lawyers, you can navigate the process confidently and work towards a fair resolution.