WORKERS' COMPENSATION

Fired After Being Hurt At Work In New Jersey

Getting injured at work is tough enough—but getting fired afterward can feel like a devastating betrayal. Suddenly, you’re not just dealing with pain and recovery—you’re also facing lost income, mounting bills, and uncertainty about your future.

It’s easy to feel overwhelmed, isolated, and unsure of your rights. Employers sometimes count on that confusion to avoid responsibility, leaving you to pick up the pieces alone.

You don’t have to accept this. A workers’ compensation lawyer can help you fight back, protect your rights, and pursue the benefits and compensation you deserve.

Call (609) 520-0900 or contact us online to get the help you need today.

How Pellettieri Rabstein & Altman Can Help If You’ve Been Fired After Being Hurt at Work in New Jersey

Getting fired after a workplace injury can leave you feeling stuck and unsure of what to do next. At Pellettieri Rabstein & Altman, the top attorneys in New Jersey, we’re here to help you figure out your next steps and protect your rights.

First, we’ll sit down with you for a free case evaluation to hear what happened. Then we’ll start gathering the evidence—things like employment records, medical documents, and any witness statements that could support your case. We’ll also work to find out who exactly is responsible for what happened. Sometimes it’s your employer, but it can also involve others. Once we have the facts, we’ll fight to hold them accountable, whether through negotiations or in court.

If you were fired after getting hurt at work, don’t wait. Call (609) 520-0900 to talk to us, or contact us online to set up a free consultation.

Our Workers’ Compensation Attorneys

Managing Partner

Gary E. Adams

Workers’ Compensation, Employment & Labor, Personal Injury

Biography & contact information

Jeffrey S. Monaghan

Workers' Compensation

Biography & contact information

Roberto J. Benites

Workers' Compensation

Biography & contact information

I Got Hurt at Work and They Fired Me

It’s overwhelming to get hurt at work and then be let go. We hear it all the time: “I gave them years of my life, and now they say I’m not a good fit anymore.” Or, “I don’t even know what to do next.” If you’re feeling blindsided, you’re not alone. A lot of people don’t realize they have rights after a situation like this.

You shouldn’t be punished for getting injured while doing your job. We understand how personal this feels—it’s not just about work, it’s about your future. When you’re ready, we’re here to listen and help you figure out a path forward. You don’t have to deal with this by yourself.

Your Rights After a Workplace Injury

After getting hurt on the job, it’s easy to feel like you have no control. But you do have rights. Here’s what you should know:

You have the right to file a workers’ compensation claim for medical care and lost wages.
You can’t be fired just for getting hurt at work.
You have the right to reasonable accommodations if your injury affects your job.
You may be able to take legal action if your firing was unfair or retaliatory.

If you’re feeling unsure about where you stand, we’re here to answer your questions and help you move forward.

Can Your Employer Fire You After a Work Injury?

Getting hurt at work doesn’t automatically protect your job. In New Jersey, employers can still fire you for reasons unrelated to your injury, like layoffs or performance issues. But if you were fired because you got hurt, that could be illegal. It’s important to know your rights.

Wrongful Termination for Filing a Workers’ Compensation Claim

In New Jersey, it’s illegal for an employer to fire you just because you filed a workers’ compensation claim. Unfortunately, some employers retaliate against injured workers by letting them go or making up excuses.

If you believe your injury claim led to your termination, you could have a case for wrongful termination. It’s important to act quickly to protect your rights and gather any evidence that shows a connection between your injury and your firing.

Our Victories

$185K

$185,000 (Partial Settlement) to Electrician for Asbestos-related Cancer

When a union electrician was diagnosed with a type of cancer related to asbestos exposure, our attorneys were able to prove he had, in fact, been exposed at his job sites to sufficient amounts of asbestos to contribute to the cancer.

Workers’ Compensation Medical and Disability Benefits for Life from Mesothelioma Exposure at Out-of-Business Employer

A union electrician employed by an electrical contractor from 1952 through 1980, developed malignant mesothelioma, which is a rare form of cancer frequently associated with asbestos exposure. Our attorneys filed a workers’ compensation claim, but faced the challenge that our client’s employer had gone out of business several years earlier.

Retail Department Store Employee Covered for Degenerative Knee Condition

After years of standing on her feet serving customers, our client’s knees gave out – one and then the other – and the doctor recommended knee replacement surgery to alleviate the pain.

Salesman Between Appointments Covered By Workers’ Compensation for Auto Accident Injuries

While driving between client appointments, a salesman suffered injuries in an auto accident that landed him in the hospital and led to several procedures and physical therapy. While the damage to his car was covered by his auto insurance, the primary coverage for his injuries were paid by his employer’s workers’ compensation insurance.

Work-at-Home “Telecommuter” Recovers on Auto Accident

Although her primary workplace was at home, our lawyers made the case that our client was traveling on business and that she was not commuting; therefore, our client’s auto injuries were covered under workers’ compensation law.

Benefits Recovered for Dust, Dirt, Fumes at Work That Caused Chronic Bronchitis

Breathing in excessive dust, dirt and fumes – especially those that can be toxic to the lungs – over a period of years can cause chronic bronchitis and emphysema. Now retired and suffering from chronic bronchitis, and prodded by his wife, our client asked his doctor whether his work environment could have caused his condition.

Benefits Recovered for Repetitive Motion Carpal Tunnel Syndrome in Office Worker

When our client was diagnosed with carpal tunnel syndrome, she was not aware that the repetitive motion of keyboarding on her computer at the office every day over a period of years could be the cause – and that she had the right to workers’ compensation benefits – until a friend convinced her to contact us.

$75K

$75,000 to Technician for Grease Burn Injury

Burns often leave emotional, as well as physical scars. When burning grease splashed our client, a fire safety technician, our workers’ compensation lawyers won benefits for him.

Carpenter Hired by Friends for Renovation Covered by Workers’ Compensation

When friends hired a master carpenter to renovate their historic home and make various other improvements to their property, and he was seriously injured from a fall, the insurance company said that he was an independent contractor and refused to cover him as an employee.

$250K

$250,000 for Widow in Workers’ Compensation Case

The widow of a delivery driver for a local company was awarded $250,000 in widow’s benefits in a Workers’ Compensation case.

If you are suffering from a long-term or permanent disability after sustaining a workplace injury or occupational illness in New Jersey, you may be entitled to benefits to help you financially while you heal. The knowledgeable workers’ compensation disability attorneys at Pellettieri Rabstein & Altman can guide you every step of the way as you demand the benefits you are owed.

105

Combined Years Experience of Lawyers

100%

Kinds Of Comp Cases We Handle

Certified Workers’ Compensation Law Attorneys

We have a particularly strong reputation in the field of workers’ compensation, which we helped pioneer in the state. In fact, our namesake partner Ruth Rabstein was known as “the Dean of the New Jersey Workers’ Compensation Bar” for the many contributions she made to expanding workers’ rights in the state.

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How to Recognize If Your Termination May Be Unlawful

Getting fired after a workplace injury can feel overwhelming, but certain warning signs could mean your termination wasn’t legal.

Timing Matters

If you were fired soon after reporting an injury or filing a workers’ compensation claim, that timing could be suspicious.

Unusual Treatment

If you suddenly faced new criticisms, write-ups, or were told you weren’t a “good fit” after years of solid performance, it might point to retaliation.

If any of this sounds familiar, it’s worth speaking with a lawyer who can review your situation and explain your options.

Steps to Take If You Believe You Were Wrongfully Terminated

If you think you were fired because of a workplace injury, it’s important to act quickly to protect your rights. Here’s what you should do:

Notify your employer about your injury as soon as possible, even if they already know.
Ask for the proper paperwork to file your workers’ compensation claim.
Keep detailed records of any conversations or actions taken against you after your injury.
Contact a Pellettieri Rabstein & Altman attorney early on to guide you through the process.
Make sure your accident gets reported to the workers’ compensation insurance provider.
If your employer fails to report it, your attorney can step in to notify the insurer or file with the Division of Workers’ Compensation.

Why Hiring a New Jersey Workers’ Compensation Attorney Matters

When you’re hurt at work and worried about losing your job, having a skilled attorney on your side can make all the difference. A workers’ compensation lawyer knows how to protect your rights, push back against unfair treatment, and make sure you get the benefits you deserve. At Pellettieri Rabstein & Altman, we’re here to stand up for you every step of the way.

Case Results

Our team at Pellettieri Rabstein & Altman has a strong record of helping injured workers and their families get the results they deserve. Here are a few examples of our recent successes:

Won $185,000 partial settlement for a union electrician diagnosed with asbestos-related cancer after job site exposure.
Secured $75,000 for a fire safety technician who suffered serious burn injuries from splashing grease.
Negotiated a $4+ million resolution in a family farm estate dispute, helping one sibling purchase the farm below market value.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you were fired after getting hurt at work, you’re not alone. Here are answers to some of the most common questions we hear from clients in your situation:

Can I be sacked for having an accident at work?

No, it’s illegal for an employer to fire you simply because you were injured. If this happens, you may have a wrongful termination claim.

What should I do if I was terminated shortly after reporting a workplace injury?

Document everything, including dates, conversations, and emails. Then contact a workers’ compensation attorney right away to protect your rights.

Do I still qualify for workers’ compensation benefits if I’ve been fired?

Yes, being fired does not automatically cancel your right to workers’ compensation benefits for your work injury.

How can I prove my firing was related to my injury or claim?

You’ll need evidence showing a connection, such as suspicious timing, retaliation patterns, or inconsistent reasons for your termination.

Is it worth hiring a lawyer if I’ve already been let go?

Yes, an experienced lawyer can help you pursue compensation and hold your employer accountable for unlawful treatment after your injury.

From our clients

I came to PRA with my workmen compensation case . Gary Adams represented me . Gary was recommended to me by a friend and I in turn recommended Gary to another friend. Gary and his paralegal Jennifer are very good with communication and keeping me well informed in regards to my case : answering emails & returning my calls . I have and I will continue to recommend Gary and his staff to my friends .

My experience with Pellettien Rabstein & Altman was a great one! Every step of the way they were there with me, they made sure I got the justice I deserved. Whenever I called there was someone to answer the questions I had, the receptionist and secretary were friendly and very polite. Anytime, any day, I will recommend Counselor Gary Adams to represent any of my family or friends.

I have dealt with this firm for over 7 years on a very complicated Workmans Compensation case.
I have dealt with a myriad of legal firms throughout the country for over 30 years in my positions of CEO. And this firm is by far, the best firm I have ever dealt with.

My attorney at Pellettieri Rabstein & Altman was amazing and I can’t thank the firm enough for their insights and assistance! I would highly recommend them!

It was a very long and arduous time (13 years to bring this before a Judge). Living out of state made it particularly hard. Attorney Monaghan of Pellettieri Rabstein & Altman in New Jersey was diligent in helping through the morass of a very difficult workers’ comp claim resultant from an assault on a flight over international waters. I am permanently disabled from this assault and appreciate PR&A’s help.

Pellettieri Rabstein & Altman has very knowledgeable attorneys who are responsive and professional. Jeff Monaghan is an excellent example of this.

Pellettieri Rabstein & Altman listened to my needs and helped me get a larger settlement than I expected. They were very attentive and kind.

Pellettieri Rabstein & Altman is an outstanding firm.

Were You Fired After Being Hurt at Work in New Jersey?

Getting injured on the job is hard enough without worrying about losing your income too. If you were fired after reporting a workplace injury, you might feel overwhelmed, angry, and unsure of what to do next. You are not alone, and you have options.

The team at Pellettieri Rabstein & Altman is ready to fight for your rights and help you move forward. Call (609) 520-0900 or contact us online today to get started.

Free Consultation at Contact Pellettieri Rabstein & Altman

Schedule a Free Consultation with a New Jersey Workers’ Compensation Lawyer

You don’t have to face the stress of a workplace injury and job loss alone. A free consultation can help you understand your rights and the best steps to take. Our experienced workers’ compensation attorneys at Pellettieri Rabstein & Altman are here to listen, guide you, and fight for what you deserve. Let’s start building your case today.

Call (609) 520-0900 or contact us online to schedule your free consultation.

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