Burgess & Sharp

If you are Terminated, or think you are about to be terminated :

1. If you are presented with documents at the time of your termination, do not sign anything.
2. Ask to take any documents home and for time to have them reviewed by a lawyer.
3. Request a complete copy of your personnel file, including your employment application, employment contract, non-compete agreement, and confidentiality agreement, if these are applicable, pursuant to the Bullard-Plawecki Right to Know Act .
4. Request your unpaid vacation and sick pay.
5. If they refuse to pay your vacation and sick pay, ask for a copy of the company policy regarding vacation and sick pay.
6. Ask for a letter stating the reason for your termination.
7. Ask for a letter of recommendation (unless you are being fired for cause).
8. Ask for a copy of the company's "Plan Summary" - it explains all your benefits.
9. If you are being terminated for cause, ask if you have a right to appeal and if so, ask for a copy of the appeal procedure.
10. If you are a union member, contact your representative and file a grievance if you are being terminated for cause.
11. Do not make derogatory statements about the company, your supervisors or your coworkers.
12. Do not threaten to sue.
13. If threatened with termination, do not voluntarily quit - it could prevent you from collecting unemployment.
14. Do not remove company records or documents unless you were authorized to possess and copy such documents in the scope of your duties.
15. Return all company property at the time of your termination and get documentation acknowledging that it was returned.
16. Request that you be allowed to take all your personal items with you at the time of your termination.
17. If you are not allowed to get your personal items, submit a list of the unclaimed items to human recourses as soon as possible
18. Request a copy of your employee handbook if you don't have one.
19. If you do not have the opportunity to request the above at the time you are terminated, send a registered letter or email to the Human Resources Director as soon as possible requesting these documents.

You should also ask for a copy of any company policy that requires you to submit any claims to arbitration or any other alternative dispute resolution process. You should also request a copy of any company policy that imposes a statute of limitations shorter than allowed by statute on claims arising from your employment.

THEN ... Contact Burgess & Sharp, PLLC as soon as possible after your termination to assess your legal rights and assist you with any additional processes that are warranted