Filing a workers’ compensation claim in Florida is your legal right if you’re injured. Unfortunately, what happens after you file a claim is usually out of your control. While it is illegal, some employers may respond with retaliatory actions.
Recognizing these warning signs early is critical in protecting your rights. As Florida workers’ compensation lawyers, we have seen how retaliation can unfold and how you can safeguard your future.
What Is Employer Retaliation?
Employer retaliation occurs when your employer takes negative actions against you because you exercised your right to file a workers’ compensation claim. In Florida, employees are protected from retaliation under state and federal law.
If an employer demotes, reduces your pay, or creates a hostile work environment after you file a claim, it may be considered illegal retaliation. Seeking legal help from Florida workers’ compensation lawyers can be crucial.
Top Warning Signs That Your Employer Might Retaliate After a Claim
If you’ve recently filed a workers’ compensation claim, you must be aware of potential retaliation from your employer. Retaliation can take many forms, from subtle shifts in treatment to more overt actions like demotion or termination.
Knowing the warning signs can help you take action before the situation escalates. Here are some of the top indicators that your employer may retaliate after your claim so you can protect your rights and livelihood.
Sudden Negative Performance Reviews
A common sign of employer retaliation is a sudden drop in your performance reviews. Before your claim, your evaluations may have been positive or neutral, but now you’re receiving unjustified criticism.
This could be an attempt to build a case for your termination or demotion. Negative feedback, especially vague or based on things outside your control, can be a red flag.
Demotion or Changes in Job Responsibilities
If your employer suddenly changes your job duties or demotes you after you file a claim, it may be more than a business decision. While companies sometimes adjust roles, these changes can be retaliatory if they come without justification and negatively affect your standing in the company. Florida workers’ compensation lawyers can help you determine if these changes are legitimate or signs of retaliation.
Reduction in Hours or Pay
A reduction in hours or pay can significantly impact your financial well-being. After filing a claim, if your employer cuts your hours or lowers your salary without explanation, it may be retaliation.
Recognizing when these changes are an unfair response to your workers’ compensation claim is essential. Legal remedies, such as restoring your previous pay or hours, may be available with the help of experienced Florida workers’ compensation lawyers.
Hostile Work Environment
After filing a claim, you might notice a change in how your coworkers or supervisors treat you. A toxic or hostile work environment—where you’re excluded, ignored, or treated unfairly—can be another sign of retaliation. Documenting hostility is crucial, as these actions may be subtle but still damage your mental and emotional well-being.
Exclusion from Meetings or Projects
If you suddenly find yourself left out of meetings, projects, or important discussions after filing a claim, this may be a sign of retaliation. Being sidelined can impact your career growth and lead to feelings of isolation. When your employer starts excluding you without a valid reason, it can be a way to punish you for exercising your rights.
Sudden Disciplinary Actions
Employers may retaliate by escalating disciplinary actions. You might start receiving warnings or disciplinary write-ups for minor or fabricated reasons. If this happens after filing a claim, it’s important to take these actions seriously and document them carefully. Retaliatory discipline can be proven if there is a clear pattern of targeting you unfairly.
Termination
One of the most severe forms of retaliation is wrongful termination. If your employer is suddenly building a case to fire you—perhaps by giving negative reviews, issuing unwarranted warnings, or cutting your pay—it may be time to act.
In Florida, firing an employee in retaliation for filing a workers’ compensation claim is illegal. If you suspect you’re at risk of wrongful termination, contacting Florida workers’ compensation lawyers as soon as possible can help protect your rights.
How Our Florida Workers’ Compensation Lawyers Can Help
At Sternberg | Forsythe, P.A., our Florida workers’ compensation lawyers are dedicated to helping employees who face retaliation after filing a claim. We can guide you through the legal steps, from gathering evidence to negotiating with your employer or filing a lawsuit.
Early legal intervention is crucial to protecting your rights and preventing further harm. If you’ve noticed any warning signs of retaliation, contact us today to explore your options and ensure you get the compensation and respect you deserve.
Contact Our Florida Workers’ Compensation Lawyers To Explore Your Options
Recognizing the warning signs of employer retaliation is essential for protecting yourself after filing a workers’ compensation claim. If you suspect retaliation, don’t wait—reach out to the experienced Florida workers’ compensation lawyers at Sternberg | Forsythe, P.A. for a free consultation today.