What to Do in the First 48 Hours After Being Fired
The actions you take immediately after losing your job can make or break a legal claim. Here is your action plan.
Stay Calm and Do Not Sign Anything
Do not sign a severance agreement, release of claims, or any other document without legal review. You are not required to sign anything on the spot.
Request a Written Reason for Termination
Ask your employer to provide the reason in writing. This creates a record that can later be compared against the facts.
Preserve All Evidence
Forward relevant work emails to your personal account before access is revoked. Save texts, voicemails, and any communications related to your employment. Do not take proprietary information.
File for Unemployment Benefits Immediately
Filing for unemployment does not affect your ability to pursue a legal claim and can actually help your case if the employer contests it.
Write Down Everything You Remember
While events are fresh, write a detailed account including dates, times, locations, who was present, and what was said.
Consult an Employment Attorney
Many employment attorneys offer free consultations. The sooner you consult, the better they can advise on preserving evidence and meeting deadlines.
Think You Have a Case?
This article is for informational purposes. For advice specific to your situation, speak with an experienced employment attorney at no cost.
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