You've Been Terminated! Now What? A Quick Guide to Suing in Texas
So, you've been given the boot. Your boss, with a straight face and a handshake that felt like a wet fish, told you to pack your stuff and hit the road. Classic. Now, you're probably wondering if you can turn this sour lemonade into a sweet legal victory. Let's talk about wrongful termination in the Lone Star State.
How Long Do You Have to Sue? Tick Tock!
First things first: time is not your friend in this situation. In the grand scheme of Texas law, you've got a pretty short window to file a lawsuit. We're talking a mere 180 days from the day your employment took a one-way trip to Termination Town. That's right, half a year to decide if you want to take your ex-employer to court. Not exactly enough time to grow a cowboy mustache, but hey, it's Texas.
Exceptions to the Rule: When 180 Days Just Isn't Enough
Okay, so you might be thinking, "What if my case is special? Can I get an extension?" Well, buckle up, because there might be a loophole. If you're claiming discrimination, harassment, or retaliation, you might have a bit more time. You'll need to file a charge with the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) within 180 days, but you can then file a lawsuit within two years of filing that charge.
Important note: This is a general overview. Every case is different, and there might be other factors that affect the timeline. So, don't rely solely on this blog post for legal advice. Always consult with a lawyer if you think you have a wrongful termination case.
What to Do After You Get the Axe
While you're busy nursing your wounded pride, don't forget to gather evidence. Keep copies of emails, texts, performance reviews, and any other documentation that might be relevant to your case. And, of course, talk to a lawyer as soon as possible.
Remember: Even if you think your case is solid, it's always a good idea to get professional legal advice. Lawyers know the ins and outs of the law, and they can help you navigate the legal system.
How to... Your Wrongful Termination FAQs
- How to calculate the 180-day deadline: Start counting from the day after your termination.
- How to find a wrongful termination lawyer: Ask for referrals, search online, or contact your local bar association.
- How to prepare for a consultation with a lawyer: Gather your employment documents, and be ready to explain what happened.
- How to protect yourself from retaliation: Keep a record of any negative actions taken by your employer after you were terminated.
- How to stay sane while waiting for your case to be resolved: Practice self-care, find a support system, and remember that justice delayed is not justice denied.
So there you have it, a crash course in wrongful termination law in Texas. Remember, knowledge is power (and might save you some money on legal fees).
Disclaimer: This post is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Please consult with an attorney for advice