Terminated or laid-off employees, who meet the eligibility requirements in Florida, are entitled to unemployment benefits. In this economy, the job market is tough enough to navigate with unemployment benefits, so eligible employees need to make sure their rights are being protected.  Unfortunately, some unscrupulous employers will try to deny prior employees from collecting their rightful unemployment benefits. They may deny a claim by lying or distorting events that led to a termination. If you believe you are entitled to unemployment compensation, and your claim has been denied, you need to file an appeal immediately. Employers and businesses often have attorneys on retainer to avoid paying unemployment benefits to workers who rightfully deserve them, so you need to contact an employment law attorney as soon as possible.

Who is Eligible for Unemployment Compensation?

Since employment termination reasons can vary widely, it’s important to speak with an unemployment law attorney before or during the appeals process. Eligibility requirements also vary depending upon the situation. In most cases, employees who are laid off due to ‘downsizing’ are eligible for unemployment compensation. Many ‘terminated’ employees are also eligible for unemployment benefits.

Unemployment Compensation Eligibility in Florida

• Past earnings must meet minimum threshold requirements.
• The unemployed person must be able, available and actively looking for work.
• Under Florida law, you must be unemployed through no fault of your own.

Before the Appeals Referee

Appearing before the Appeals Referee is usually the most important part of the whole appeals process. This is when you get the chance to introduce your evidence and make your case for the unemployment benefits you deserve. During this adversarial proceeding, you, your witnesses, evidence, employer’s witnesses and evidence will all be examined. Typically, an employer will have a lawyer during this process, so it’s important to make sure your legal rights are being protected too.

When to Call an Employment Law Attorney

If you or your previous employer has filed an unemployment appeal, contact an experienced employment law attorney as soon as possible. A lawyer can be your advocate during the complicated appeals process. Contact our experienced employment law team for a case consultation at (239) 262-2141.

Legal Disclaimer: The above guidelines are educational in nature and do not create an attorney/client relationship. It is highly recommended that all Florida citizens with employment law issues contact an experienced local Florida employment law attorney to assist them with specific facts and circumstances regarding their labor and employment law matter. If you have been the victim of illegal activities at your workplace, then feel free to contact Attorney Rothman at Weldon & Rothman, PL toll free at (877) 730-5180 or via e-mail at info@weldonrothman.com

Bradley P. Rothman is an experienced Florida employment law attorney who has been recognized by Super Lawyers as a Rising Star.  He is a principal member of Weldon & Rothman, PL – a Southwest Florida law firm with offices in Naples, Fort Myers, and Sarasota.