Wrongful Termination Claim in Nashville
Tennessee is an at-will employment state. That means Tennessee employers can fire workers at any time and for almost any reason (or for no reason at all) as long as the termination does not violate any laws. However, there are exceptions, such as terminations for discrimination, retaliation, or a violation of public policy.
If you believe you were wrongfully terminated, you could be entitled to take legal action. Take a look at the following steps to learn how to file a wrongful termination claim in Tennessee.
Gather Evidence
Evidence can make or break a wrongful termination claim. Key proof in these cases often includes:
- Performance reviews
- Emails or messages regarding the termination
- Documentation showing protected activity (like complaints or reports)
- Witness statements from coworkers
- Any written communication between you and your employer
- Copies of employment contracts
- Disciplinary notes or company policies that indicate inconsistencies or unfair treatment
Meet the Deadlines
Meeting deadlines is critical in wrongful termination cases and depends on your reason for filing:
Wrongful Termination Based on Discrimination or Retaliation
Federal law generally gives most employees 180 days to file a discrimination or retaliation charge with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). In Tennessee, that deadline can be extended up to 300 days. You can file a state-law discrimination or retaliation charge with the Civil Rights Enforcement Division (CRED) of the Tennessee Attorney General’s Office, which enforces violations of the Tennessee Human Rights Act and the Tennessee Disability Act.
Wrongful Termination Without Discrimination
Other types of wrongful termination claims are not subject to the same deadlines. Examples include whistleblower claims or public-policy violations, such as being fired for refusing to break the law.
Consult a skilled Nashville employment lawyer promptly to learn the time limits and procedures that apply to your case.
File the Appropriate Administrative Claim (EEOC / CRED)
Before you can sue for wrongful termination for discrimination or retaliation, you must first file a charge with either the EEOC or CRED. This step is mandatory for most of these types of claims. The EEOC handles federal claims, while CRED addresses violations of state law. Both agencies work with Nashville employees, and they often coordinate investigations to avoid duplication.
You can submit a charge online, by mail, or in person at the Nashville EEOC field office. The agency will review your allegations, notify your employer, and begin investigating. You could also file a discrimination or retaliation charge with CRED here. Filing through one of these channels protects your right to pursue a wrongful termination lawsuit for discrimination later if the EEOC issues a Right to Sue notice.
After the EEOC approves your right to take legal action, you generally have 90 days to sue. In Tennessee, the deadline to sue could vary depending on the legal basis of your claim. Some cases, such as those involving public-policy violations, may have a one-year statute of limitations. However, other claims, such as whistleblower or breach-of-contract claims, may have different deadlines. Speak to a knowledgeable attorney promptly to determine the timeline that applies to your case.
Work with a Trusted Nashville Wrongful Termination Lawyer to Move Forward
Wrongful termination claims involve strict deadlines, detailed procedures, and complex laws. An experienced wrongful termination lawyer can help you understand how federal and state laws apply to your situation and guide you through each step of the claims process.
If you need personalized answers about how to file a claim for wrongful termination in Nashville, the wrongful termination attorneys at the Employment and Commerce Law Group are ready to help. Contact us now to discuss your case in a free initial consultation.
