From immigration issues to civil rights violations, there are a number of reasons why employment-related disputes occur. However, it is particularly upsetting when someone has been hurt while working and experiences retaliation after pursuing workers’ compensation benefits. In Minneapolis/St. Paul and throughout the state of Minnesota, it is crucial for those who are dealing with employment disputes to understand their rights and do everything they can to handle the situation properly.
The Washington State Department of Labor & Industries has outlined a variety of ways employers sometimes retaliate against employees who seek workers’ compensation, such as the reduction of hours or benefits and wrongful termination. Other forms of retaliation include the denial of a promotion, refusing to accommodate workers who have job-related restrictions as ordered by their physician and assigning employees to less desirable shifts. When someone experiences retaliation, it is very important for them to stand up for their rights and take action as soon as possible.
According to the Office of the Revisor of Statutes, employers in Minnesota who unlawfully discharge or threaten to discharge an employee for pursuing workers’ compensation benefits may have to pay punitive damages for violating employment law. In fact, employers are required to pay damages when they are charged for intentionally preventing an employee from obtaining workers’ compensation benefits in any way. Clearly, workers’ compensation retaliation is taken very seriously in the courtroom and it is imperative for anyone who has experienced this mistreatment firsthand to understand their legal options and determine the smartest path forward.