5 signs you’ve been wrongfully dismissed from the workplace

May 5, 2025 8

Experiencing workplace hostility can be an incredibly distressing experience, especially when it results in dismissal. Understanding your rights and recognizing the common signs of wrongful termination is crucial for protecting yourself and seeking justice.

If you suspect that your dismissal was unjust, keep on reading. We will discuss five indicators that you may have been wrongfully terminated from your place of employment.

Violation of employment contract

One of the most clear-cut signs of wrongful dismissal is a breach of your employment contract. All employees have the right to employment for the duration of their contract, and any dismissal that does not adhere to those terms can be considered unjust.

For instance, if your contract specifies that you can only be terminated after a specific disciplinary process, being let go without following those guidelines may indicate wrongful termination. Always review your contract carefully to understand your rights and obligations. An employment lawyer can assist with this.

Discrimination based on protected characteristics

If you believe that your dismissal was influenced by discrimination, it’s a strong indicator of a toxic work environment. Various laws protect employees from being fired due to race, gender, age, disability, sexual orientation, or other protected characteristics.

If you experience negative treatment or hostility related to any of those factors and were subsequently dismissed, you may have grounds for a claim. Documenting instances of discrimination can provide evidence to support your case.

Sudden changes in job performance evaluation

If your employer has suddenly changed the way they evaluate your job performance, particularly if you have been receiving positive feedback previously, this could be another sign of poor work culture. A sudden shift from praise to criticism may indicate that your employer is attempting to build a termination case.

Consistent and documented performance evaluations are essential. If these evaluations have become unfairly negative, it may be a tactic to justify their reason for dismissal.

Hostile work environment

Experiencing a hostile work environment is an issue in itself, but it can also lead to wrongful termination. Facing harassment or bullying that contributes to a toxic atmosphere is a serious concern and shouldn’t be taken lightly.

Employers have a responsibility to maintain a safe and respectful work environment. If your job conditions deteriorated to a point where you felt compelled to leave or were dismissed, you have grounds for a case.

Retaliation for whistleblowing or reporting issues

Another significant sign of wrongful dismissal is retaliation for whistleblowing or reporting unethical or illegal practices within the organization. If you raised concerns about workplace safety, harassment, or financial misconduct, and were fired shortly after, your termination may be retaliatory.

Various laws protect employees who report wrongdoing. If you suspect this was the case, it’s essential to consult with a legal professional regarding your situation.

Recognizing the signs of wrongful dismissal is crucial for protecting your rights in the workplace. If you suspect that your termination is unjust, evaluate your situation carefully and reach out to an experienced employment lawyer. The right professionals can help you form a case and ensure you receive any entitled compensation.