1. Schedule Your Free 15-Minute Consultation
Ready to talk? You’ll have a no-obligation, no-pressure 15-minute chat with Joseph Gibson, founder of Fortis Employment Law. Just share what happened at work, and we'll let you know right away whether you have a viable case—completely free, with no strings attached.
2. Receive a Complimentary In-Depth Case Review
If it sounds like you have a viable claim, we’ll move on to a free, in-depth case review. We'll analyze your documents, build a clear timeline of events, and help you understand potential damages. By the end, you’ll know exactly what options you have—and what to expect—before deciding whether to move forward.
3. Take the Next Step with Confidence
Whether you’re ready to file a claim or simply want more information, you’ll never feel pressured. Our goal is to empower you with knowledge and a clear path forward.
WRONGFUL TERMINATION
Explained by a Maryland employment attorney
Losing your job is always stressful, but being fired for an illegal reason can feel especially unfair. At Fortis Employment Law, we guide Maryland employees through every step of a wrongful termination claim—from understanding your rights under state law to negotiating a settlement or taking your case to court.
With deep knowledge of Maryland’s unique statutes and a client-first approach, we make the legal process clear, manageable, and focused on getting you the justice (and compensation) you deserve. Start today with a free, no-obligation consultation.
3
years
statute of limitations
8-12
months
average case duration
$300k
or more
in damages
UNDERSTANDING WRONGFUL TERMINATION
“At-Will” Employment and its Limits
Maryland is an “at-will” employment state, meaning employers and employees can generally end the relationship at any time for any—or no—reason. But “at-will” does not give employers license to fire you for reasons that violate public policy or contract promises. If your termination crosses one of the following lines, you may have a wrongful termination claim:
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Public Policy Violations: You can’t be fired for reporting safety hazards, refusing to engage in unlawful conduct, or exercising statutory rights (e.g., paid sick leave under the Maryland Healthy Working Families Act).
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Whistleblower Protections: State and local employees who expose wrongdoing—fraud, code violations, environmental hazards—are safeguarded by the Maryland Whistleblower Act.
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Statutory Rights: Termination for using protected leave (FMLA/CFRA, sick leave) or for asserting wage-and-hour rights under the Maryland Wage Payment & Collection Law can give rise to a claim.
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Breach of Contract: Written or implied agreements—like an offer letter promising one year of employment—can override “at-will” status if your employer fails to honor them.
COMMON TYPES OF WRONGFUL TERMINATION
The most common case we see at Fortis Employment Law? Retaliation.
Whether you were let go for speaking up about unsafe conditions, relying on a promised term of employment, or taking protected leave, identifying the precise nature of your claim is the first step toward building a winning strategy.
Below are the most frequent types of wrongful terminations we handle—and how each one can form the basis of your case.
CONTRACT-BASED TERMINATIONS
RETALIATION & WHISTLEBLOWERS
If you blew the whistle on fraud, safety code breaches, or public health risks and faced termination as a result, Maryland law empowers you to challenge that retaliation. We handle every aspect—from filing administrative complaints to presenting your evidence in court.
EXERCISING LEAVE RIGHTS
Even at-will employees can have enforceable promises. A guaranteed term in an employment contract, employee handbook, or offer letter may bind your employer. When those promises are broken, you can recover lost wages and benefits.
Maryland’s Healthy Working Families Act grants paid sick leave; the federal FMLA and state CFRA protect certain family and medical leaves. Losing your job for taking—or requesting—leave under these statutes can form the basis of a wrongful termination lawsuit.
TESTIMONIALS*
More than just an employment lawyer—your steadfast advocate.
Joseph at Fortis Employment Law was extremely knowledgeable and understanding.
Lisa B.
Discrimination
Knowledgeable, communicative, trustworthy, and genuinely client-focused. I highly recommend Joseph Gibson at Fortis.
Mathew M.
Wrongful Termination
Professional and very helpful. Highly recommended!
Elena B.
Hostile Work Environment
