Every wrongful termination case begins with two competing stories: the one the employer drafts to justify the potentially unlawful decision, and the one the evidence eventually exposes. Fortunately, working with an Arcadia wrongful termination lawyer can strengthen an employee’s narrative and reveal an employer’s true intentions.
At Shields Petitti & Zoldan, PLC, we built our reputation in Arcadia and the broader Phoenix legal community on decades of litigation, substantial recoveries, and a deep understanding of how employers operate. We know when to preserve evidence quietly, when to press for answers, and when to position a case for resolution. For employees facing sudden job loss and uncertain next steps, that combination of precision, credibility, and individualized attention can make the difference between silence and outcome.
What Laws Does an Arcadia Wrongful Termination Lawyer Use to Build My Case?
Arizona follows at-will employment rules, but that does not mean employers can terminate an employee for any reason. Termination becomes unlawful when it violates protections under laws such as:
- Title VII of the Civil Rights Act. Firing an employee after they report racial or religious harassment can violate this federal protection.
- The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Terminating an employee because they requested a reasonable medical accommodation may trigger an ADA claim.
- The Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA). Letting go of a qualified worker over 40 and replacing them with a younger, less experienced employee can fall under this statute.
- The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA). Dismissing someone for taking approved leave to care for a new child or a serious health condition can run counter to the FMLA.
- The Arizona Employment Protection Act. Firing a worker for refusing to break the law or for reporting illegal conduct may breach this statute.
Our experienced legal team can determine whether your termination falls into one or more of these categories or other laws.
When Should I Contact a Wrongful Termination Attorney Arcadia Firm Like Shields Petitti & Zoldan, PLC?
Some employers push employees out quietly. Other employees face a hostile finale. In both cases, patterns often emerge, including:
- Sudden criticism after positive reviews,
- Demotion or isolation after reporting misconduct,
- Termination soon after requesting reasonable accommodation,
- Replacement by someone with different protected characteristics, and
- Termination following participation in an internal or government investigation.
These shifts may indicate retaliation or discrimination, especially when they follow protected actions. A firm skilled in Arcadia employment litigation, like Shields Petitti & Zoldan, can trace the cause and expose inconsistencies in the employer’s stated reasons.
How Does Arcadia Employment Litigation Strengthen My Position?
When a firm handles a case strategically and without delay, employees regain control of the narrative and compel employers to take them seriously. Litigation support can shift the balance quickly by accomplishing the following:
- Preserving key evidence early. Texts, emails, performance reviews, and internal complaints can vanish or suffer corruption if counsel is not involved soon enough.
- Preventing employers from shaping the storyline. Companies often document justifications before an employee has a chance to respond. Legal intervention prevents them from controlling the record.
- Eliminating the “delay equals acceptance” argument. Employers frequently claim that waiting to act means nothing improper occurred. Filing or investigating early removes that leverage.
- Putting experienced litigators in the lead. Shields Petitti & Zoldan brings nearly five decades of combined experience to the table.
- Leveraging a respected reputation. Fox News, NBC News, AZ Central, Phoenix New Times, Super Lawyers, and Best Lawyers have all recognized our firm, which influences how quickly employers respond, how honestly they evaluate risk, and how willing they are to negotiate in good faith.
By working with a firm known for its credibility and preparation, employees protect themselves from disappearing evidence, rewritten timelines, and employer-controlled narratives from the outset.
What Damages Are Available in an Unlawful Termination Arcadia Claim?
Compensation in Arcadia unlawful termination cases can include:
- Back pay and front pay;
- Lost benefits;
- Emotional distress damages;
- Punitive damages in egregious cases; and
- In many cases, attorney fees and costs.
Arizona and federal law provide avenues to recover what you lost financially, professionally, and personally, and Shields Petitti & Zoldan will examine every option.
Need a Skilled Wrongful Termination Attorney? Arcadia Advocates Shields Petitti & Zoldan, PLC Will Fight for You
If you believe your firing was wrongful, Shields Petitti & Zoldan can help you take immediate action to protect your interests. We approach every case with the seriousness of trial preparation, because that is often what it takes to secure results. Our attorneys will listen, investigate, and protect your interests, positioning your claim to maximize its strength from the outset. Contact us to schedule a consultation today.