Arizona, like most states, is an at-will employment state. In Arizona, workers can quit jobs whenever they like for any reasons they like.
However, that freedom goes both ways. Employers don’t even necessarily need reasons to fire workers in Arizona. They can terminate employment contracts as they see fit.
That doesn’t mean there are never exceptions. Wrongful termination laws in Arizona prohibit firing employees for discriminatory reasons. You may have grounds to take legal action if an employer violated such a law when they fired you.
What is the Arizona Civil Rights Act?
The Civil Rights Division of the Arizona Attorney General’s Office enforces the Arizona Civil Rights Act (ACRA). Under this state law in Arizona, it is illegal for an employer to discriminate against workers and candidates on the basis of:
- Race/color
- National origin
- Sex
- Religion
- Age (for workers 40 years of age or older)
- Disability
An employer may ignore this Arizona wrongful termination law and fire you because they believe you’re too old to do your job, they don’t want to accommodate a disability you’ve developed, etc. Make a note of any evidence you have that indicates you’re the victim of workplace discrimination if this happens. You may need substantial evidence to show an employer knowingly broke the law when they fired you.
What Other Laws Protect Arizona Workers From Wrongful Termination?
Federal laws also protect Arizona workers from wrongful discrimination. Such laws include:
- Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964
- Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA)
- Whistleblower Protection Act
- Employee Polygraph Protection Act (EPPA)
- Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
- Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
Even when an employer who fired you didn’t technically break state wrongful termination laws in Arizona, they may have violated another federal law. This is one of many reasons it helps to review your case with a lawyer. They can explain your legal options in greater detail.
Additionally, the Arizona Employment Protection Act (AEPA) is another state law that covers exceptions to at-will employment. This is another law you may cite when arguing an employer is guilty of wrongful termination.
Who Oversees the Wrongful Termination Laws in Arizona?
If you believe you have a strong Arizona wrongful termination case, you can initiate the legal process by filing a complaint with the Civil Rights Division of the Arizona Attorney General’s Office.
The agency may also file your complaint with the federal Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). Ask about this topic, and file your own EEOC claim if the state agency doesn’t file one on your behalf. The agencies with whom you file claims will investigate the matter further and inform you of your legal options upon completing their investigations.
Get in Touch With a Lawyer That Takes Arizona Wrongful Termination Claims
Knowing whether you have a valid Arizona wrongful termination case may be challenging if you’re not familiar with the applicable laws. Even if you know your case is valid, gathering sufficient evidence to prove an employer broke the law isn’t easy on your own.
Help is available. To learn more about your legal options, strongly consider reviewing your case with an Arizona wrongful termination lawyer. Get started today by taking the Free Case Evaluation to speak with an independent, participating attorney who is subscribed to this website and may be able to help you.
