What is the difference between being laid off and wrongfully terminated?

In Tennessee, being laid off and wrongfully terminated are two different concepts. A lay off is when an employer does not renew or has to decrease the number of employees on staff for economic reasons, such as a decrease in business or budget cuts. This does not necessarily reflect on the employee’s own performance or behavior, and it is not considered a form of wrongful termination. Wrongful termination is when an employer terminates an employment relationship for reasons that violate the state or federal law, the employment contract, and/or public policy. Examples of wrongful termination include firing an employee based on a protected characteristic, such as race, religion, gender, disability, or age; firing an employee in retaliation for reporting safety violations; or firing an employee for exercising a workplace right, such as filing a complaint about discrimination or taking leave under the Family and Medical Leave Act. In Tennessee, if an employee believes they have been wrongfully terminated, they can file a claim with the Tennessee Human Rights Commission or file a lawsuit for damages. It is important to note that wrongful termination does not necessarily mean the employee was fired without any reason; it can also mean that the employer provided an illegal reason for the termination.

Related FAQs

What is the statute of limitations for wrongful termination?
Is retaliation legal if I am wrongfully terminated?
Can I be wrongfully terminated due to age discrimination?
What qualifies as a wrongful termination case?
What is the difference between wrongful termination and wrongful act termination?
What is the difference between wrongful termination and involuntary termination?
What is the difference between wrongful termination and wrongful abstinence?
Can I be fired without a valid reason?
What is the difference between wrongful termination and wrongful discharge?
What are my chances of winning a wrongful termination case?

Related Blog Posts

What Is Wrongful Termination and What Can You Do About It - July 31, 2023
What to Know About Wrongful Termination Lawsuits - August 7, 2023
Understanding Your Rights Under Wrongful Termination Law - August 14, 2023
Is It Illegal to Be Wrongfully Terminated? Unpacking Wrongful Termination Law - August 21, 2023
Everything You Need to Know About Unfair Dismissal in Wrongful Termination Law - August 28, 2023