What is the difference between wrongful termination and being fired?

By Douglas Lipsky
Partner

Wrongful termination by itself is not a legal claim. An employer is only breaking the law if they fire you for discriminatory or retaliatory reasons. New York is an at-will employment state that means an employer could fire you for no reason or any lawful reason and with no notice. If however, the employer fires you because you fall under a protected status or you complain to some type of unlawful conduct that is unlawful.

About the Author
Douglas Lipsky is a co-founding partner of Lipsky Lowe LLP. He has extensive experience in all areas of employment law, including discrimination, sexual harassment, hostile work environment, retaliation, wrongful discharge, breach of contract, unpaid overtime, and unpaid tips. He also represents clients in complex wage and hour claims, including collective actions under the federal Fair Labor Standards Act and class actions under the laws of many different states. If you have questions about this article, contact Douglas today.