Wrongful Termination Lawyer for Long Island Workers

Losing your job is always stressful, but when it happens unfairly, the pain runs even deeper. If you were fired for reasons that feel wrong or discriminatory, you may have legal rights that can be protected. An experienced wrongful termination lawyer Long Island can help you understand your options and fight for justice. At Rissmiller PLLC, we know how devastating job loss can be—not just financially, but emotionally. Our goal is to protect workers like you across Nassau and Suffolk Counties and hold employers accountable.

While New York is an “at-will” employment state, meaning employers can fire employees for almost any reason—or even no reason at all—this rule has powerful exceptions. An employer cannot fire you for an illegal reason. Understanding the difference between an unfair firing and an illegal one is the first step toward getting the justice you deserve.

What Legally Counts as Wrongful Termination?

Not every unfair firing is against the law. New York is an “at-will” employment state, meaning employers can let employees go for many reasons, even reasons that are mistaken or seem unjust. However, they cannot fire someone for an illegal reason. Wrongful termination happens when an employer violates federal, state, or local laws or public policy in the process of letting you go.

It is crucial to understand that the termination becomes illegal when the true underlying reason is tied to discrimination, retaliation for protected activity, or a breach of your employment contract.

Discrimination: Fired Because of Who You Are

It is illegal for an employer to terminate you based on your membership in a protected class. This includes firing you based on your:

• • Race, color, or national origin

  • Sex or gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, and related medical conditions)

  • Age (40 or older)

  • Religion or creed

  • Disability (physical or mental)

  • Sexual orientation or gender identity/expression

  • Marital or familial status

  • Military status

  • Predisposing genetic characteristics

Examples of discriminatory termination include being laid off shortly after announcing your pregnancy, hearing managers make ageist comments before you were let go, or being disciplined for minor rule violations that are consistently ignored when committed by coworkers of a different race.

Retaliation: Fired for Speaking Up or Asserting Your Rights

Employers are prohibited from punishing or firing employees for engaging in legally protected activities. This is one of the most common forms of wrongful termination. Some examples include:

• • Reporting or complaining about discrimination or harassment (either internally or to an agency)

  • Filing a workers’ compensation claim after a workplace injury

  • Requesting a reasonable accommodation for a disability or religious practice

  • Serving on a jury

Breach of an Employment Contract

While most employees are “at-will,” some have employment contracts or are part of a union with a collective bargaining agreement that changes this rule.  

These agreements often state that an employee can only be terminated “for cause,” meaning for a specific, valid reason like misconduct or poor performance. If your employer fires you without meeting this standard, you may have a claim for breach of contract.

What Compensation Can You Recover in a Wrongful Termination Case?

Losing a job unfairly isn’t just about a paycheck—it affects your self-esteem, your family, and your future. A successful wrongful termination lawsuit can provide the financial resources you need to get back on your feet and hold your former employer accountable for the harm they caused. Many people feel shocked, embarrassed, or even betrayed when an employer they trusted acts unlawfully. On top of that, sudden loss of income can create financial stress overnight. You might worry about paying rent, covering bills, or supporting your loved ones.

Alex Rissmiller understands the human side of wrongful termination cases. He knows clients are often hurting inside, and his role is not just to fight legally but also to provide the guidance and compassion you need during this difficult time.

Depending on the specifics of your case, you may be able to recover compensation for:

• • Back Pay: Lost wages and benefits from the date you were illegally fired.

  • Front Pay: Compensation for future lost wages if getting your job back is not a viable option.

  • Emotional Distress Damages: Compensation for the mental anguish, pain, and suffering caused by the unlawful termination.

  • Punitive Damages: In cases of extreme or malicious conduct, these damages are designed to punish the employer and deter similar behavior in the future.

  • Attorneys’ Fees and Costs: In many cases, a successful lawsuit requires the employer to pay your legal fees.

Your Legal Options

If you believe you were wrongfully fired, it’s important to act quickly. Your right to seek justice is limited by strict deadlines called statutes of limitations. If you miss these deadlines, you could lose your ability to file a claim forever. Choosing where to file—with a federal, state, or local agency—is a critical strategic decision that can affect your case.   

An attorney can help you determine the best path forward. Depending on the circumstances, your options may include:

• • Filing a complaint with a state or federal agency such as the EEOC or the New York State Division of Human Rights

  • Bringing a lawsuit against your former employer for damages

  • Seeking compensation for lost wages, lost benefits, and emotional distress

  • Negotiating a settlement to help you move forward financially and professionally

How Rissmiller PLLC Can Help

Alex has dedicated his career to helping employees who have been treated unfairly. He knows how employers try to defend wrongful termination claims and how to push back effectively. When you work with Alex, you’ll have an advocate who:

• • Listens closely to your story and treats you with respect

  • Conducts a thorough investigation to gather the evidence needed to build a powerful case

  • Reviews your employment history and documents to uncover violations

  • Explains your rights in clear, straightforward language

  • Builds a strong case supported by evidence

  • Negotiates aggressively with your former employer

  • Represents you in court if necessary

With Rissmiller PLLC, you’ll never feel like just another case file. You’ll have a partner who is personally invested in getting you results.

Why Choose a Long Island Wrongful Termination Lawyer

Employment law is complex, and each case is different. Having an attorney who focuses on wrongful termination in Long Island makes a difference. Local experience means knowing the courts, the agencies, and the common tactics employers use. It also means having someone who understands the challenges employees face right here in our community.

A Long Island wrongful termination lawyer like Alex Rissmiller can give you the confidence to stand up for your rights, knowing you’re not alone. His approach is both compassionate and aggressive—supporting you while fighting hard to hold your employer accountable.

Frequently Asked Questions About Wrongful Termination in NY

Can I be fired for no reason in New York?

Yes. Because New York is an “at-will” employment state, your employer can fire you for a good reason, a bad reason, or no reason at all—as long as the reason is not illegal (like discrimination or retaliation).   

How do I prove my employer fired me for an illegal reason?

Proof often comes from circumstantial evidence. This can include a timeline showing you were fired shortly after a protected activity (like filing a harassment complaint), emails or messages with discriminatory language, positive performance reviews that contradict the employer’s reason for firing you, and testimony from coworkers who witnessed the illegal behavior.   

How much does it cost to hire a wrongful termination lawyer?

We handle most wrongful termination cases on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay no upfront costs or hourly legal bills. We only get paid if we successfully recover money for you through a settlement or verdict.   

What is the difference between filing with the EEOC and the NYS Division of Human Rights?

The EEOC is the federal agency that enforces federal anti-discrimination laws, while the NYSDHR enforces New York’s broader Human Rights Law. The laws cover many of the same protected classes, but there are key differences in procedures, deadlines, and potential remedies. Choosing the right agency is a strategic decision an attorney can help you make.   

My employer offered me severance. Should I take it?

You should never sign a severance agreement without having it reviewed by an employment lawyer. These agreements almost always require you to waive your right to sue your employer. An attorney can help you understand what rights you are giving up and negotiate for a better offer.

Schedule Your Free, Confidential Consultation Today

If you’ve been fired unfairly, don’t wait. The law sets strict deadlines, and waiting too long could mean losing your right to compensation forever. You may be entitled to compensation for lost income and the harm you’ve suffered. The sooner you act, the stronger your case can be. Contact Rissmiller PLLC today to schedule a free, confidential consultation with an experienced wrongful termination lawyer in Long Island trusts. You are not alone. We are here to help you fight for the justice you deserve.