Legal Protections for Employees Facing Wrongful Termination in Tennessee

Wrongful termination occurs when an employee is dismissed from their job for reasons that violate legal statutes or contractual agreements. In Tennessee, employees have specific legal protections under both state and federal law, aimed at safeguarding their rights in the workplace.

Tennessee is an at-will employment state, which generally means that an employer can terminate an employee for any reason that is not illegal. However, there are critical exceptions that provide protective measures for employees facing wrongful termination.

1. Discrimination Protections
Under federal laws like Title VII of the Civil Rights Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act, employees are protected from wrongful termination based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or age. Tennessee also has its Human Rights Commission that reinforces these protections. If an employee believes they were terminated due to discrimination, they can file a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or the Tennessee Human Rights Commission.

2. Retaliation Protections
Employees are also protected from retaliation for engaging in legally protected activities, such as filing a complaint about workplace discrimination or harassment, participating in an investigation, or whistleblowing. Tennessee’s Public Protection Act safeguards employees who report illegal activities or unsafe working conditions. If an employee is terminated for such actions, it may be considered wrongful termination.

3. Breach of Contract
In cases where an employee has a contractual agreement (written, oral, or implied) that defines the terms of their employment, terminating that employee may constitute a breach of contract. For example, if a contract stipulates that an employee will only be terminated for "just cause," firing that employee without cause may lead to wrongful termination claims.

4. Wage and Hour Laws
Tennessee employees are also protected under wage and hour laws at both state and federal levels. If an employee is terminated for exercising their rights regarding minimum wage, overtime pay, or filing complaints about wage violations, this can also lead to claims of wrongful termination.

5. Whistleblower Protections
Tennessee law offers protections to whistleblowers. If an employee reports illegal activities within their company, such as fraud or safety violations, and faces termination as a result, they may have a case for wrongful termination. This protection applies to a range of contexts, ensuring that employees can safely report misconduct without fear of losing their job.

Steps to Take if Facing Wrongful Termination
If an employee believes they have been wrongfully terminated in Tennessee, they should first collect any relevant documentation, such as emails, performance reviews, and witness statements. Following this, they should consult with an employment attorney who specializes in wrongful termination cases to explore legal options. Filing a complaint with the EEOC or the Tennessee Human Rights Commission may also be necessary, depending on the circumstances.

Conclusion
Tennessee employees possess various legal protections against wrongful termination, including safeguards against discrimination, retaliation, and breach of contract. Understanding these protections can empower employees to take action if they believe they have experienced an unlawful termination. Seeking legal help and filing the appropriate complaints can be crucial steps in reclaiming their rights and pursuing justice in the workplace.