You’ve always done your best to fulfill your job responsibilities in a timely manner and to improve your performance because you have aspirations of seeking a better position later. Unfortunately, your employer could take steps that negatively impact your future job prospects.

If your employer wrongfully discharges or fires you, it could be difficult for your career to bounce back from that wrongful termination. You may have to start rebuilding from the ground up, in addition to dealing with the stress, anxiety and even depression that can come from losing your job unexpectedly.

In some cases, if you have proof of wrongful acts by your employer related to your termination, you may be able to hold them accountable for the negative impact of your termination on your career. What are some of those consequences?

You could go weeks or even months without income

Wrongful termination is often a surprise that shocks a worker who had done their best to perform their job according to their employer’s expectations. When you don’t know that your job is at risk, you probably won’t have sent out any resumes or lined up alternative opportunities.

It may take some time for you to get an interview for a reasonable position and even longer for you to finally get back to work after a wrongful termination. During that period of unemployment, you may have to diminish your savings or live on credit, both decisions which could have long-term financial implications.

A termination can affect the wages and positions you can command

Being able to negotiate for a decent rate of compensation often requires that you have some kind of leverage during your employment negotiations. Losing your job usually means losing your leverage, as the company interviewing you will know that you are in need of income sooner rather than later.

The same might be true for the position that you hope to secure. A recent termination in your employment history might keep a company from seriously considering you as the right choice for a managerial or executive position.

Lost wages, lost earning potential and lost savings are all common consequences after a wrongful termination. Putting a value on those various financial losses will help you determine the right amount of compensation to seek if you bring a wrongful termination lawsuit against your former employer.