what to do if you find out from a co-worker that you're about to get fired? do I have any legal resources?

Answer 1

If you really are about to get fired, there is little or nothing you can do about it unless your employer has done something illegal in choosing you for termination. All states in the US recognize what's called an "at-will employment" doctrine. Fundamentally, this says that either you or your employer may terminate your employment for any reason at any time. There are some exceptions to this (public policy, implied contracts, implied-in-law contracts, and statutory restrictions), but unless you're being discriminated against (in the sense of Title VII of the US Code), or fired because of a disability (which is protected under the Americans with Disabilities Act), or for few other special-case reasons, you have no real recourse. Sorry about that.

Answer 2

First and foremost, do not go by hearsay from other co-workers.

If this will happen you will hear this from your Manager or Supervisor.

If they fire you, you should get something in writing because you will need to sign a document in front of someone in HR.

If you feel that this was a wrongful termination than you should seek legal advice and find out what your rights are in the situation.

Hope this helps.

God Bless....

Answer 3

Why would you believe the co-worker?

As far as legal reesources, in regards to what? The co-worker knowing? The being fired part? If it is for the being fired, it depends on whether it is for cause or not. You may have access to a grievance procedure that could reverse the decision.

Answer 4

True, hearsay is usually not a good thing. But, it wouldn't hurt to sign up with a Temporary Employment agency. It will give you some confidence, and a plan to fall back on if needed.

I wouldn't put my energy into planning legal action at this point, but rather using the energy for a plan to get a paycheck. Unemployment doesn't send you a check right away.

If the word from the employee is wrong, it's wrong. But I once wasn't happy at a job, and went to work one day where EVERYONE was avoiding me, or staring at me, wouldn't talk to me and yes, they had decided to let me go. Funny, everyone knew but me. It can happen.

Answer 5

If is is true, you should let them know that Ms X told you several days ago. If she is friends with someone in personnel, she should not be giving out confidential information. Is Ms X sleeping with someone, and she does not know how to keep her mouth closed. How well do you know her? Maybe she would like to have your job??

You can be terminated without a reason, and I know you think this is not fair. I was fired one time because the owner did not like who I was sleeping with. The reason he give me was that was not working out for the company?? I asked what does that mean, he could not give me an answer. He said that they would give me a good reference if someone would call them.

Sometimes things work out for the best, I got a new job within three weeks with more pay and benefits.

Answer 6

I would work as normal and ignore the co-worker. You are not fired until someone in authority does it. Your co-worker could just be trying to stir things up.