Cincinnati Wrongful Termination Attorneys
Comprehensive Legal Support for Clients Across Ohio
Wrongful termination can be an emotionally and financially devastating event for any loyal, hardworking employee. Fortunately, Ohio employment laws protect workers from being unjustly fired on the basis of discrimination or retaliation.
The Cincinnati wrongful termination attorneys at Freking Myers & Reul, LLC are here to help you file a claim and stand up for your legal rights. You may have the right to recover financial damages in a wrongful termination claim against an employer who violated state law. Compensation may include punitive damages, equitable back pay, attorneys’ fees, and more.
Wrongful termination claims can be quite challenging to prove because Ohio is an “at-will” employment state. However, there is hope for employees who have been the victim of an employer’s illegal actions. The following information is intended to help you better understand your rights and options.
Is Ohio an At-Will State?
Employment in Ohio is considered to be on an “at-will basis.” This means an employer or employee may terminate the relationship:
- At any time (without having to give to notice)
- Without providing cause
- Without reason
Exceptions may apply in cases where a contract exists between you and your former employer. For instance, an employer cannot terminate an employee based on discriminatory reasons, such as race, gender, age, religion, or disability. Wrongful termination can also occur if an employee is fired for exercising their legal rights, such as whistleblowing. A lawyer can determine the scope of such a contract and determine your legal options.
What Is Considered Wrongful Termination in Ohio?
Despite Ohio’s “at-will employment” doctrine, employers must adhere to certain state standards. Your employer may be guilty of wrongful termination if they violated a federal or state employment law.
Illegal reasons for terminating an employee include:
- Firing someone based on gender, sexual orientation, race, age, disability, marital status, pregnancy, religion, etc.
- Firing injured workers who file for medical compensation and other benefits.
- Firing employees who act in a “whistleblower” capacity.
- Firing an employee as retaliation against them for going on leave of absence for the birth of a child or for a family medical emergency.
A lawyer can assess the circumstances of your case to determine if you have cause to file suit.
Can I Sue My Boss for Treating Me Unfairly?
You may not recover damages in a wrongful termination claim based on an “unfair” or “unjust” firing. The dismissal must be considered illegal in order for you to pursue damages in a civil action.
For instance, you cannot sue your boss based on his or her having fired you because your salary allegedly was too high. While this could be considered an unfair cause for dismissal, it does not—in and of itself—represent a violation of the law. Ohio’s status as an “employment-at-will” state requires you to prove your employer violated a state employment law.
A Down to Earth Approach
Our CLients Share THeir Experiences
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“I would highly recommend this firm. I had the pleasure of working with Kelly Mulloy Myers and her team. My case was handled professionally and efficiently . I was able to resolve my issue via email and phone calls which was much preferred keeping me from making trips into town, finding parking etc.”- Linda E
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“I recently had the pleasure of consulting with Kelly Myers during a very difficult contractual dispute with my prior workplace. While we agreed that it was best for me to continue myself, at least for a time, she was deeply helpful and insightful. We spoke for over 40 minutes about specific issues and I never felt rushed or unheard. I will recommend Ms. Myers to anyone who asks me for future employment issues. I am grateful and hopeful that this Google Review will bring new business to an attorney who I believe in just after a 40 minute consultation.”- Blake C.
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“This team exceeded my expectations! They kept me updated at all times, answered & addressed any questions/concerns I had, & most importantly won my case. Highly recommend!”- Kofi F.
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“I have engaged the firm a few times regarding employment issues. Each time they were, kind, supportive, efficient, and provided excellent guidance. I have recommended them to several friends and colleagues. We were also impressed at how timely, organized and methodical they were!”- Virginia W.
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“Erin Heidrich was absolutely fantastic for us. She was kind, smart, and professional. Communication was great with her and she made us feel good about the likely outcome of the process we were going through. We would use her again for sure.”- Matthew M.
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“I highly recommend Freking Myers & Reul. My lawyers Elizabeth "Liza" Newman and Jon Allison were both very attentive, understanding, and extremely knowledgeable about employment law. Their care for me and my situation went above and beyond what was right in the eyes of the law, but what was right for me as a person trying to be valued as an employee and as an individual. I always felt heard and never did I feel like just another case on their docket. I don't have experience with legal situations and their usual costs, but I felt like I more than got my money's worth with this firm. Thank you so much Liza and Jon!”- Karen P.
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“I am very thankful that Mark Napier was recommended to my family. He is an awesome attorney. He is very knowledgeable, personable, and professional. He definitely went above and beyond in researching and preparing for the case. He also referred a brilliant mediator to guide the mediation process. I would highly recommend Mark to anyone needing legal services.”- Vicki G.
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“Erin Heidrich, Attorney, and Heather Waldron, Client Relations Director, handled my case with dignity and respect. They understood my concerns and supported my efforts to have a successful outcome. I am grateful for their commitment and support. I highly recommend them to anyone with employment concerns or challenges.”- Kristilynn T.
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“During a very difficult time I had the pleasure to work with Liza. She was quick to explain my options while listening and allowing me to explain my situation. She kept me updated during the process and explained everything as we went along. I would highly recommend her. Her knowledge and compassion made me feel comfortable during a time that was very challenging.”- Elizabeth Newman