In economically uncertain times, layoffs increase – but many employees don’t know that they can challenge a dismissal or at least negotiate a fair severance package. Especially with terminations due to operational reasons or sudden dismissals, it’s worth having your situation reviewed under employment law. Because: not every dismissal is legal.
If you've been dismissed, you only have three weeks to file a wrongful termination claim with the labor court. This deadline is legally binding – and if you miss it, your chances of severance or reinstatement are extremely slim.
⏱️ Tip: Act quickly and seek legal support – even if you're unsure whether the dismissal was lawful.
Many terminations already fail due to formal errors. A dismissal can be invalid if:
it is not issued in writing (an email is not sufficient),
there is no comprehensible reason for termination,
the works council was not properly consulted,
special protection against dismissal applies (e.g. disability, parental leave, pregnancy),
the employer fails to comply with the German Protection Against Unfair Dismissal Act (e.g. more than 10 employees and over 6 months of employment).
⚖️ Particularly common: dismissals for operational reasons that can be challenged when the company fails to apply a fair “social selection” among employees.
The goal of a wrongful dismissal claim isn’t always to return to the job – many employees aim for a fair severance. And the odds are good: many cases end in a settlement and payout.
💡 Good to know: While there’s no automatic right to severance under German law, employers often agree to pay to avoid lengthy legal disputes.
Many people hesitate to contact a lawyer due to fear of high costs. But now, there are modern digital legal service providers like Captain Frank who evaluate employment cases – without any financial risk.
✅ Benefits:
free initial assessment,
digital case submission in just minutes,
no upfront costs – payment only if successful (e.g. upon receiving severance),
experienced employment law partner attorneys.
If you’ve received a termination notice, don’t delay. In many cases, it’s worth contesting the dismissal or at least negotiating a severance. The most important step is to meet the 3-week deadline and use professional support – quickly, digitally, and with no financial risk.
🎯 Tip: Submit your dismissal to Captain Frank now for a free assessment. Simple, online, and hassle-free.