Can you sue your employer in Mississippi? The short answer is yes, but you typically need a valid reason to do so. Mississippi employment laws can be complex and challenging to understand, particularly for those unfamiliar with them. That’s why it can be helpful to work alongside a qualified employment lawyer who has experience representing clients against their employers.
When Would I Need to Hire an Employment Lawyer?
In Mississippi, employees retain certain rights in the workplace. If these rights are violated, a worker has the ability to seek a resolution. Sometimes, an issue can be resolved or remedied through a company’s own procedures. When an issue or concern is not taken seriously or given attention, employees have the right to pursue action outside work in civil court.
You may want to hire an employment lawyer if your workplace issue has escalated or gone uncorrected. These are some common legal issues you may want to consult an employment law attorney about:
- Discrimination: It is unlawful for a prospective employee or hired worker to be discriminated against based on their characteristics. Examples include an individual’s country of origin, race, sex, age, disability, and pregnancy status.
- Wrongful termination: While Mississippi is an at-will employment state, meaning employers have the right to fire a worker at their discretion, there are certain scenarios where termination is illegal. Wrongful termination must be in violation of the employee contract or employment law.
- Retaliation: When an employee exercises their civil rights or brings attention to workplace misconduct, they are legally protected from demotion or wrongful termination. It is against employment law for an employer to retaliate against a worker for participating in protected activities.
- Workplace harassment: Employees have the right not to be harassed or feel fearful for their safety within the workplace. There are many forms of harassment, including sexual harassment, inappropriate or threatening comments, and a hostile job environment.
In fiscal year 2024, there were 1,317 total cases filed with the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission within the state of Mississippi. Of these filings, about 532 involved general retaliation claims and 214 involved accusations of age discrimination in the workplace.
Forrest County employment lawsuits at the federal level are generally processed at the Hattiesburg Division of the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Mississippi. The specific venue is the William M. Colmer Federal Building & U.S. Courthouse, located at 701 Main Street, Hattiesburg, MS 39401. Employment lawsuits at the state level are likely to be heard in the Forrest County Circuit Court, located at 630 Main Street, Hattiesburg, MS 39401.
Why Consult Johnson, Ratliff & Waide, PLLC?
At Johnson, Ratliff & Waide, PLLC, we ensure that we listen to the unique experiences and needs of our clients. Our employment law attorneys can protect your rights and advocate on your behalf. You can feel confident about your case when working with a skilled employment attorney from our firm.
FAQs
Q: Is It Usually Worth It to Sue Your Employer?
A: Whether it’s worth it to file a civil case against your employer is different for each person and their unique circumstances. If you’re unsure whether you have a viable or strong claim, you can consult with an experienced employment lawyer who can assess the details of your case. Suing an employer can be worthwhile in certain cases. Filing a civil case can hold offending parties accountable, bring justice and closure to victims, and allow them to recover damages.
Q: What Are My Rights as an Employee in Mississippi?
A: In Mississippi, there are civil rights and protections that each employee has under federal and state employment laws. These rights include the right not to be discriminated against for one’s protected characteristics and the right not to be subjected to harassment in the workplace. Additionally, employees have the right to be fairly compensated for their work in a timely fashion and to take family and medical leave. Consult with a lawyer if you’re unsure whether your rights have been violated.
Q: Can I Sue My Employer for Firing Me in MS?
A: You can only file a civil claim against your employer for firing you if they wrongfully terminated your employment. In Mississippi, employers have the right to terminate a worker’s employment at their discretion, as long as doing so does not violate applicable employment laws. Examples of wrongful termination include retaliating against an employee for requesting or taking family and medical leave, speaking up about harassment, or whistleblowing.
Q: How Much Is an Employment Law Claim Worth?
A: Each employment law case has vastly different factors that influence how much in damages may be recovered. How much an employment law claim is worth depends on the strength of your claim, what evidence is available, and the severity of the harm or negligence involved. Settlements typically include damages such as lost wages, potential lost future earnings, compensatory damages, punitive damages, and coverage for attorney fees.
Q: Do I Need a Lawyer to File a Claim Against My Employer?
A: While you’re not legally required to hire a lawyer to file a civil claim against your employer, it’s highly advised that you do not try representing yourself in court. Employment law is extensive and complex, so you give your case a stronger chance of success by working with an experienced and knowledgeable attorney. Your employer may have their own legal counsel, and you should also be properly represented to ensure your case is treated fairly and your rights are protected.
We’re Here to Help in Your Employment Dispute
Over the years, the team of professional and compassionate lawyers at Johnson, Ratliff & Waide, PLLC has helped clients in numerous employment cases. We can provide insightful counsel and strong representation for your case as well. Contact us today to schedule an initial meeting with one of our experienced employment law attorneys.
