Wrongful Termination in Massachusetts
Wrongful Termination in Massachusetts
Employers in Massachusetts generally have broad discretion to hire and dismiss employees, but there are limits to that power. A firing becomes wrongful if it violates state law, federal statutes, or an employment agreement.
Losing your job unexpectedly is never easy, and the situation is even worse when your rights have been violated. A Massachusetts wrongful termination attorney can help you determine whether your dismissal was unlawful and guide you through the process of pursuing relief.
Unlike many other states, Massachusetts recognizes that wrongful termination can arise not only from discriminatory or retaliatory firings, but also from breaches of explicit or implied contracts.
Even statements in an employee handbook or assurances from a supervisor can create an expectation of continued employment. If those expectations are broken without legal cause, you may have grounds for a claim.
Types of Wrongful Termination
In Massachusetts, wrongful termination can occur in several forms. Some employers knowingly violate the law, while others may act out of ignorance. Either way, the employee suffers the consequences. Because employment law can be complex, workers should always seek legal advice when a firing feels suspicious.
Limitations of At-Will Employment
Massachusetts follows the at-will employment doctrine. This means that, in most cases, an employer can terminate an employee at any time, without warning, and without providing a reason.
However, this rule has important exceptions. At-will employment does not give an employer permission to fire an employee for discriminatory reasons or in violation of contractual obligations.
The National Conference of State Legislatures notes that at-will employment also cuts both ways: just as employers may terminate without notice, employees are free to resign at any time. That said, Massachusetts law still protects workers from wrongful dismissal.
Retaliatory firings, discriminatory practices, and breaches of implied or written contracts fall outside the scope of lawful at-will employment.
Discrimination
Discrimination remains one of the most common grounds for wrongful termination lawsuits. Massachusetts law makes it illegal to fire an employee because of race, religion, national origin, sex, pregnancy, age, disability, or other protected categories.
Additionally, Massachusetts provides legal protections for employees based on sexual orientation and gender identity, extending beyond the protections offered in some other states.
If you believe you were dismissed for a discriminatory reason, you may file a charge with the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). A Massachusetts employment lawyer can help you build your case and navigate both federal and state complaint procedures.
Retaliation
Massachusetts law also protects employees from retaliation. You cannot legally be fired for reporting harassment, discrimination, wage violations, or unsafe working conditions. You also cannot be dismissed for exercising rights such as taking medical leave under the Family and Medical Leave Act.
The Commonwealth of Massachusetts has additional whistleblower protections. These laws apply to both public and certain private employees who report fraud, misuse of funds, or violations of law. In some cases, even external parties such as customers or vendors may be protected when reporting misconduct. Retaliation in the form of termination, demotion, or harassment is unlawful, and the state provides avenues of support during the investigation process.
Employees in Massachusetts are also protected when taking time off for civic responsibilities such as voting, jury duty, or military service. Retaliatory terminations under these circumstances may also qualify as wrongful.
What To Do If You’ve Been Wrongfully Terminated in Massachusetts
If you suspect your firing was illegal, you may be entitled to reinstatement, back pay, compensatory damages, and other relief. The definition of wrongful termination depends on both federal and Massachusetts law, so consulting with an experienced attorney is essential.
Act quickly—Massachusetts has strict deadlines. Most wrongful termination complaints must be filed with the EEOC or the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination (MCAD) within 180 days of the violation. In cases that overlap with federal law, the deadline may extend to 300 days. Missing these deadlines can jeopardize your claim.
Step One: Gather Evidence
Document everything related to your termination. This may include emails, performance reviews, termination notices, or notes from conversations with supervisors. Witness testimony from coworkers can also be valuable. If you still have access to your workplace accounts or records, gather evidence promptly while respecting confidentiality rules.
Step Two: Find an Attorney
Employment laws in Massachusetts are complex, and they often change as new legislation and court rulings emerge. A wrongful termination lawyer can evaluate the facts of your case, explain your rights, and prepare a strong claim on your behalf. Having legal representation increases the chances of success, whether your case goes to settlement or trial.
Step Three: File a Complaint
The EEOC offers a self-assessment tool to help employees determine whether filing a complaint is appropriate. However, working with an attorney makes the process much easier and ensures your complaint is properly drafted.
For most Massachusetts workers, complaints are filed with the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination (MCAD), which enforces state anti-discrimination laws.
Federal complaints are handled by the EEOC’s Boston Area Office, which serves as the local federal enforcement agency. Your lawyer can advise whether to file at the state level, federal level, or both.
Why You Should Hire a Wrongful Termination Lawyer in Massachusetts
Wrongful termination cases can be difficult and stressful to pursue alone. A qualified Massachusetts attorney can explain your legal options, help you gather the right evidence, and represent you during investigations or hearings.
Are you ready to seek justice after being wrongfully terminated?
Submit a request online or call (866) 345-6784 today to connect with an experienced Massachusetts wrongful termination lawyer. We can even help you connect with an attorney across Massachusetts state lines.
About the Author
Aaron is a professional legal writer with a B.S. in English Education from Southern Illinois University – Carbondale. He has written, published, and edited thousands of legal articles for RequestLegalHelp, which has connected over 5 million people to legal help in the United States.
With over five years of experience writing thousands of legal articles for law firms across the U.S. and Canada, Aaron specializes in covering federal, state, and city-level legal issues ranging from auto accidents to wrongful terminations.
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