Pennsylvania Workers' Compensation Lawyers Blog
We recently read a story on the StClairRecord.com about an Illinois man who claims his former employer fired him after he filed for workers’ compensation benefits. The man, who had worked at his place of employment for 10 years, filed an Illinois workers’ compensation claim after being injured on the job in May. When his physician OK’d him to return to work in October, the man said the president of the company terminated him on the same day that he returned to work. The man filed a complaint against his employer, claiming, “That said involuntary charge arose out of and in retaliation of plaintiff’s exercise of his rights under the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Act.”
This case may seem cut and dry for those in Illinois, but here in Pennsylvania, it can be a bit more complex. That’s because since 1891 Pennsylvania has been considered an employment-at-will state, meaning that employees may quit or may be fired at any time and for any reason, as long as there is not an employment contract. However, there are some exceptions, including violations of public policy, such as retaliation by an employer against an employee who files a workers’ comp claim. But it’s best to consult with an attorney experienced with these types of cases. And that’s where the attorney team at O’Connor Law can help. We will review your case for free and determine what’s the best plan of action to get you the compensation and peace of mind that you deserve.