It can feel like your world is collapsing when you lose your job. It feels even worse when you lose it after doing the right thing. Maybe you reported harassment, discrimination or unsafe conditions. You exercised your rights, and now you’re unemployed and worried about your future. It shouldn’t be this way.
What is illegal employer retaliation?
In Missouri and Kansas, the law protects employees from retaliation. This means your employer cannot punish you for engaging in protected activities, including:
- Reporting harassment or discrimination
- Raising safety concerns
- Filing a workers’ compensation claim
- Requesting accommodations for a disability
- Refusing to perform illegal actions
Retaliation can take many forms, such as:
- Termination
- Demotion
- Sudden negative performance reviews
- Unjustified disciplinary actions
- Changes in job duties or shifts
- Hostile work environment
If you notice these signs after exercising your rights, you might be facing illegal retaliation.
How to document retaliation
If you think you’re facing retaliation, start keeping records right away. This information can help if you decide to take legal action. Some steps you can take include:
- Writing down dates, times and details of incidents
- Saving emails, texts or other communications related to your actions, as well as your employer’s responses
- Keep copies of performance reviews and other work documents
- Note any witnesses to the events
The more evidence you have, the stronger your case will be.
Getting help with your retaliation claim
Dealing with retaliation can be tough, but you don’t have to face it alone. Employment law firms in Kansas City can help you understand your rights and options.
At Keenan & Doherty, our lawyers work directly with clients on complex retaliation cases. We know the laws in both Missouri and Kansas, and our team can help you:
- Understand if you have a valid claim
- Gather and organize evidence
- File necessary paperwork
- Negotiate with your employer
- Represent you in court if needed
Your rights matter, and you deserve to be treated fairly at work. If you’ve faced retaliation for speaking up, know that there are laws to protect you and people ready to help.