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Litigation With a Healthcare Employer

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When we talk about litigation with a healthcare employer, we are referring to legal disputes between an employee (or group of employees) — such as a healthcare professional — and their employer, such as a hospital, clinic, or other healthcare practice or facility. 

Employers are required to comply with various California and federal employment laws that protect healthcare employees’ rights. For example, they must provide a safe work environment, pay fair wages, avoid discrimination, and prevent healthcare worker retaliation. When employers disregard these laws, employees may have the right to file a lawsuit to seek justice and compensation for the harm they suffered.

In this article, our healthcare employment contract attorneys, whistleblower retaliation attorneys, and other specialized healthcare lawyers explain the instances that could lead to litigation with a healthcare employer — and how various disputes might develop into a case.

What Might Lead to Litigation With a Healthcare Employer?

Several workplace issues can lead to litigation, including: 

  • Discrimination. If an employee experiences discrimination due to their race, gender, age, disability, religion, or other protected traits, they can take legal action. 
  • Wrongful termination. If an employee is fired illegally — such as for discriminatory reasons, in violation of a healthcare employment contract, or in retaliation for protected activity — they may sue their employer for damages.
  • Harassment. If an employee faces harassment that makes the work environment hostile or abusive, they can file a claim.
  • Retaliation. If an employer retaliates against an employee for whistleblowing, filing a complaint, reporting unsafe practices, or engaging in other legally protected activities, the employee can pursue legal action with help from a retaliation attorney.
  • Wage and hour disputes. If an employee has a problem with unpaid wages or wrong overtime pay, they can file a lawsuit against their employer.
  • Breach of contract. If an employer breaks the terms of a healthcare employment contract, such as regarding pay, benefits, or job duties, the employee may have a legal claim.

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Individual vs. Class-Action Lawsuit

When employees sue a healthcare employer, they usually do it individually or as a group. This choice depends on the type of dispute:

Individual Lawsuit

In an individual lawsuit, a single employee sues the employer on their own behalf, typically if they experienced personal harm or their rights were violated. Common claims include wrongful termination, discrimination, retaliation, or unpaid wages.

A medical retaliation lawyer, whistleblower retaliation attorney, or another specialized employment lawyer can guide you through the process to help you seek compensation, such as lost wages, emotional distress damages, or potential reinstatement to your position. 

Class-Action Lawsuit

In a class-action lawsuit, one or more employees file a case on behalf of a larger group of employees who suffered similar harm. Class actions often occur because of widespread issues, such as systemic discrimination or company-wide violations.

While class actions are often more complicated and time-consuming than individual cases, our experienced attorneys are equipped to manage the process and fight for a fair settlement on behalf of all employees who were affected.  

How Employees Can Protect Their Rights

If you believe your healthcare employer has violated your rights — whether related to healthcare employment contracts, healthcare whistleblower retaliation, or another workplace issue — it is important to consult an experienced attorney as soon as possible.

Document all relevant incidents, save copies of employment contracts, collect communication records, and gather any other pieces of evidence. Having the right legal guidance can improve your chances of reaching the best possible outcome — whether that is negotiating a settlement or taking your case to court. 

Speak to a Retaliation or Other Employment Attorney Today

At Fenton Jurkowitz Law Group, our team of seasoned healthcare contract lawyers and whistleblower retaliation attorneys is highly knowledgeable in litigation against healthcare employers.

With extensive experience, our attorneys can guide you through the process of filing a claim if your rights have been violated in the workplace. Connect with an employment contract lawyer today by filling out the contact form on our website.