Retaliation Claims

Your Rights Against Workplace Retaliation in Washington

No employee should fear punishment for standing up for their rights or reporting wrongdoing. Washington State has some of the strongest employee protection laws in the country, and federal laws provide additional safeguards. If you've faced retaliation at work, AskLitigation can help you understand your rights and pursue the justice you deserve.

Retaliation often occurs alongside other employment law violations. Our attorneys also handle related matters including workplace discrimination and wrongful termination.

Recognizing Workplace Retaliation

Retaliation occurs when an employer takes adverse action against an employee for exercising protected rights. Common forms include:

• Termination or constructive discharge
• Demotion or transfer to undesirable positions
• Reduction in hours, pay, or benefits
• Hostile work environment or harassment
• Blacklisting or negative references
• Exclusion from meetings or opportunities
• Unwarranted discipline or poor evaluations

Protected Activities in Washington State

Washington and federal law protect employees who:

• Report discrimination or harassment
• File wage claims or report wage theft
• Report workplace safety hazards
• Take protected family or medical leave
• Report public policy violations (whistleblowing)
• Participate in investigations or proceedings
• Request disability accommodations
• Engage in union activities
• File workers' compensation claims

Washington's Strong Employee Protections

Washington State provides robust protections including:

• Paid Family and Medical Leave: Protected from retaliation for taking leave
• Sick Leave: Cannot be punished for using earned sick time
• Minimum Wage Claims: Protected for reporting violations
• Safety Complaints: Strong protections under WISHA
• Public Policy: Broad whistleblower protections

Steps to Take If You Face Retaliation

1. Document Everything: Save emails, texts, and write detailed notes
2. Report the Retaliation: Use internal complaint procedures
3. File Agency Complaints: With L&I, EEOC, or WSHRC as appropriate
4. Know Your Deadlines: Most claims have 180-300 day filing requirements
5. Seek Legal Help: An attorney can protect your rights

Time Limits for Washington Retaliation Claims

• EEOC/WSHRC: 180-300 days for discrimination-based retaliation
• L&I Complaints: Various deadlines depending on the violation
• Wrongful Discharge: 3 years for public policy claims
• Wage Claims: 3 years under Washington law

Potential Remedies

Successful retaliation claims may result in:

• Reinstatement to your position
• Back pay and lost benefits
• Front pay if reinstatement isn't possible
• Compensatory damages for emotional distress
• Punitive damages in federal cases
• Double or triple damages for certain violations
• Attorney's fees and costs

How AskLitigation Can Help

Our Washington employment attorneys will:

• Evaluate your case under state and federal law
• Identify all potential claims and remedies
• Handle communications with your employer
• File necessary agency complaints
• Negotiate for fair compensation
• Litigate your case if necessary

Act Now to Protect Your Rights

Washington's employee protection laws are strong, but they require timely action. Don't let fear of further retaliation stop you from seeking help. Contact AskLitigation today for a confidential consultation with an experienced Washington employment attorney.

Frequently Asked Questions About Washington Retaliation Claims

What makes Washington's anti-retaliation laws stronger than other states?

Washington's WLAD covers smaller employers (8+ employees vs. 15 federally), has no damage caps, offers longer filing deadlines, and protects additional classes like sexual orientation and gender identity.

Can I face retaliation for using paid sick leave in Washington?

No, Washington's Paid Sick Leave law specifically prohibits retaliation for using accrued sick time, requesting sick leave, or filing complaints about sick leave violations.

What are the deadlines for filing retaliation claims in Washington?

WLAD claims have 6 months with HRC or 3 years in court, wage claims have 3 years, PFML retaliation has 1 year, and public policy claims have 3 years.

What damages are available for retaliation in Washington State?

Washington allows economic damages (lost wages, benefits), non-economic damages with no cap (emotional distress), plus reinstatement, policy changes, and attorney's fees.