If you’ve been wrongfully terminated from your job, chances are you’re probably feeling anxious, depressed, and confused as to how you should proceed.

Your first instinct may be to take action, but in order to properly protect your rights and make sure your case is taken seriously, it’s important to understand the time commitment that a wrongful termination case will require from you.

In this blog post, we outline everything you need to know about how long a wrongful termination case will take.

We will help you assess whether you have a valid case, the right steps to take before filing, and a detailed breakdown of how long it generally takes for such cases to see closure.

What is a Wrongful Termination Case?

A wrongful termination case is a legal dispute between an employer and an employee. The allegations typically involve the employer terminating the employee without providing proper justification or following specific rules outlined in any contract.

A successful wrongful termination claim can result in financial compensation for lost wages, legal fees, emotional distress, and other remedies, depending on the circumstances of the case. With an experienced employment lawyer by your side, you can be sure that any settlement negotiations will be conducted with the utmost diligence and efficiency.

How Long Does a Wrongful Termination Case Take?

The length of time it may take to resolve a wrongful termination case depends on the details of the dispute. It also depends on whether the parties can agree without going through court proceedings. Generally speaking, most cases can be concluded within weeks or months. However, this time frame largely depends on the complexity of the dispute and any counterarguments that either party may present.

The case could go to court if a settlement cannot be reached. Court proceedings generally take much longer than other types of arbitration or mediation. A wrongful termination lawsuit typically takes anywhere from six months to two years, depending on the volume of evidence presented and other factors.

What Are the Procedures Involved in a Wrongful Termination Case?

Several steps must occur before a wrongful termination case can be taken to litigation.

First, the employee should notify the state’s Department of Labor about the alleged misconduct. The department may also have specific guidelines for filing a complaint, depending on the circumstances. The employee may file a lawsuit in court if a settlement is not reached.

Before filing for litigation, contact an experienced wrongful termination lawyer who can review your case and advise you on whether or not you have a valid claim. A lawyer can also assist with filing paperwork, obtaining evidence, negotiating settlements, and representing your interests in court if necessary.

The Steps Followed to Proceed With Your Case

In most cases, the first step that wrongful termination lawyers take is to help you draft and file a complaint in court. It is usually done in consultation with the state’s Department of Labor. The complaint should include all relevant facts about your case, including the date of the wrongful termination and any evidence you have to back up your claim.

Once a complaint is filed, the employer will have to respond. If they do not, a default judgment can be issued in favor of the employee. The employer may also request an evidentiary hearing, which could take several months before it goes to trial.

During this time, both parties will have an opportunity to present evidence and make arguments. If a settlement is not reached, the case will go to trial, and witnesses may be called upon to testify. Even after a verdict has been issued, it is possible that either party can appeal the decision, resulting in an even longer legal process.

What Constitutes Wrongful Termination in Pennsylvania?

In Pennsylvania, wrongful termination can occur when an employer terminates or fails to renew an employee’s contract for a discriminatory reason. These factors may include the following:

• Race
• Color
• Religion
• National origin
• Age
• Sex
• Familial status
• Disability
• Veteran status.

Suppose the employee believes they were wrongfully terminated for any of these reasons. In that case, they can file a claim with the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission or pursue a civil lawsuit. If successful, the employee may be entitled to pay back damages for emotional distress and punitive damages.

What is the Highest Settlement for Wrongful Termination?

The highest settlement for wrongful termination can vary depending on the case’s details and the severity of the damages. It is important to consult with legal professionals specializing in wrongful termination to assess your claim and determine your potential compensation.

In some cases, a higher settlement may go up to $100,000 if intentional misconduct or malice is involved in the termination.

Why You Need to Hire PA Wrongful Termination Lawyer

Hiring PA wrongful termination lawyers can be beneficial in several ways. Wrongful dismissal cases are complex and require a thorough understanding of the employment law and evidence to prove liability. Experienced wrongful termination attorneys will have the resources and know-how to present your case in court and maximize your chances of success.

Moreover, an attorney can help ensure that your rights are protected and that you receive a fair outcome. They can also advise you on workers’ compensation claims and any settlement offers that may be presented by the employer and help negotiate a favorable agreement.

With the right legal representation, you will prove wrongful termination and achieve success in your wrongful termination case.

Contact J.P. Ward & Associates for Impactful Legal Counsel

If you believe you have been wrongfully terminated from your job, you must speak with an experienced attorney from J.P. Ward & Associates as soon as possible to protect your rights and determine the best course of action for your particular situation.

We are a Pittsburgh-based law firm committed to helping our clients find the justice they deserve. You can rest assured that our knowledgeable and experienced team of wrongful termination law attorneys will do everything to help you with your wrongful termination case.

Call us at (412) 426-4878 for a free consultation from our employment lawyers.