If you were fired for an illegal reason in Rhode Island, there are laws in place that may protect you. Although Rhode Island is an at-will employment state, there are illegal actions that take place during the termination process. Here is a closer look at wrongful termination in Rhode Island and how to get your claim underway to recover compensation for your losses and damages.
What Is The Rhode Island Civil Rights Act?
The Rhode Island Civil Rights Act (RICRA) extensive protection against all kinds of discrimination in all phases of employment. The RICRA requires employers to treat employees the same regardless of race, color, sex, religion, disability, age, or country of ancestral origin. The law is applicable to all employers regardless of their size.
The Rhode Island Civil Rights of People With Disabilities Act prohibits employers from discriminating against a qualified applicant with a disability who – with or without reasonable accommodations – can perform the essential functions of his or her job unless there is an undue hardship.
What Other Laws Protect Rhode Island Workers From Wrongful Termination?
Rhode Island is an at-will employment state, which means that employers can terminate workers at any time without giving them prior notice or reason as to why they are being terminated from their job. However, that termination cannot be an act of discrimination.
Federal law through Title VII of the Civil Rights Act also offers protections to workers in Rhode Island. Title VII prohibits discrimination and racism, and if you were terminated from your job duties for those reasons, then you have grounds for a lawsuit against your employer for wrongful termination.
Who Oversees the Wrongful Termination Laws In Rhode Island?
Wrongful termination in Rhode Island is overseen by two agencies. The Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training and the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) enforce employment laws and regulations.
The Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training has a website link where workers can file a charge with the Rhode Island Human Rights Commission or file a complaint form with the Office of Diversity, Equity, and Opportunity.
To file a claim with the EEOC, you can go to the website and get details about the process. Complaints can be filed online or over the phone. You have 180 days from the date of the incident to file a claim, but if a local or state agency enforces state or local laws that prohibits discrimination on the same basis, your time limits are extended to 300 days.
Get In Touch With a Lawyer That Takes Rhode Island Wrongful Termination Claims
If you have been wrongfully terminated in Rhode Island, you should consult with an employment law attorney who takes Rhode Island wrongful termination claims. Gather any pertinent information and documentation. Be sure to discuss payment options with your lawyer because some attorneys require a retainer and charge an hourly rate while others take cases on a contingency basis. Complete a Free Case Evaluation today to get in touch with an independent, participating attorney who subscribes to the website and takes cases in your area.
