Wrongful Termination in Colorado
Colorado is generally an at-will state, but some firings are illegal. Here are the exceptions, retaliation protections and where to file.
Short answer: It is illegal to retaliate against or interfere with workers who claim wage, break or leave rights; raise workplace health and safety concerns; discuss pay; engage in union or other concerted activity; or complain about violations. CDLE INFO #5: Retaliation or Interference Against Exercising Labor Rights
| Whistleblower and retaliation protection | It is illegal to retaliate against or interfere with workers who claim wage, break or leave rights; raise workplace health and safety concerns; discuss pay; engage in union or other concerted activity; or complain about violations. Some of these claims can be filed with the Division, while others must go to court. |
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| Job discrimination complaints | Colorado Civil Rights Division (CCRD). An employment discrimination complaint must be filed within 300 days of receiving notice of the discriminatory act. Start with the online intake form (CaseConnect); submitting intake information is not the same as filing a formal complaint, so start well before the deadline. Complaint process: https://ccrd.colorado.gov/complaint-process |
Where to get help in Colorado
- Colorado Department of Labor and Employment (CDLE), Division of Labor Standards and Statistics
- File a complaint or claim
More Colorado employment law
- Minimum Wage in Colorado
- Final Paycheck Laws in Colorado
- Meal and Rest Break Laws in Colorado
- Paid Sick Leave in Colorado
- Non-Compete Agreements in Colorado
- All Colorado employment law rules
FAQ
Is it illegal to fire someone for reporting a violation in Colorado?
It is illegal to retaliate against or interfere with workers who claim wage, break or leave rights; raise workplace health and safety concerns; discuss pay; engage in union or other concerted activity; or complain about violations. Some of these claims can be filed with the Division, while others must go to court.
Where do I file a job discrimination complaint in Colorado?
Colorado Civil Rights Division (CCRD). An employment discrimination complaint must be filed within 300 days of receiving notice of the discriminatory act. Start with the online intake form (CaseConnect); submitting intake information is not the same as filing a formal complaint, so start well before the deadline.
General legal information, not legal advice. Laws change and local rules can differ; check the linked official source or talk to a lawyer about your situation.