If I was fired due to false accusations from a co-worker, do I have a wrongful termination case?
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If I was fired due to false accusations from a co-worker, do I have a wrongful termination case?
She told HR i threatened to punch her in the face. No investigation was done; my side of the story was not told I was just let go. I have witnessess willing to defend me. What do I do?
Asked on August 21, 2012 under Employment Labor Law, Texas
Answers:
SJZ, Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 11 years ago | Contributor
Unfortunately, in the absence of an employment contract, your employer could almost certainly legally fire you in this case, even if your co-worker lied. That because if you don't have a contract, you are an employee at will, and an employee at will may be fired at any time, for any reason, or even without any good reason at all.
However, if the co-worker lied, you may be able to sue her for defamation, since defamation is making false factual statements about you (such as that you threatened to punch someone, if you did not) to other people, which statements damage your reputation or cause others to not want to work with you. If you think this was what happened, you should consult with a personal injury attorney about a possible case.
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