Employees often fear experiencing damaging retaliation from their employers when filing workplace complaints. Reporting issues such as sexual harassment, discrimination, and other illegal practices requires courage. Unfortunately, instead of addressing the problem, some employers may wrongfully sanction or terminate the victim.
Facing illegal termination after experiencing severe problems in the workplace can have immediate consequences on your family’s finances, your well-being, and your mental health. Following are some steps to consider.
Take legal action
One of the first things you can do to counteract the consequences of an unlawful termination is to take legal action. The State of Rhode Island dictates that punishments inflicted by an employer for filing a complaint or participating in a hearing or investigation are illegal and discriminatory.
Unlawful retaliation, including termination, can come after several types of complaints, such as:
- Sexual harassment
- Illegal working hours or problems with wages
- Discrimination based on race, gender, sexual orientation or disability
- Other complaints of unlawful practices
It is important to note that these unjust actions in the workplace can happen even if you are not the employee who filed the complaint. Sometimes, employers also retaliate against workers participating in hearings or supporting their coworkers when they speak up about illegal actions.
If you fear termination is the consequence of a workplace complaint, you can seek legal counseling from a workplace attorney who can guide you through your case.
Take care of yourself and your family
Losing a job can be a traumatic experience, especially when you already had experienced other illegal practices in your workplace. This crucial change may bring grief symptoms to you and your family. It would be best to look after your mental and physical health during this time.
After a loss you can take essential actions to improve your well-being, for example:
- Prioritize self-care by creating a routine and eating healthy
- Lean on your family and loved ones for support
- Seek professional guidance if your mental health declines
Overcoming tough times requires significant effort. Surround yourself with skilled attorneys and healthcare professionals who can handle the intricacies of your case, allowing you to focus on your well-being.