Quick Answer
Comprehensive guide to Colorado wrongful termination law covering CADA protections, public policy exceptions, whistleblower laws, and employee rights.
Colorado is an at-will employment state with significant exceptions. CADA covers all employers, and Colorado recognizes broad public policy exceptions protecting employees from wrongful termination.
Quick Facts: Colorado Wrongful Termination
| Topic | Colorado Law |
|---|---|
| Employment Doctrine | At-will with exceptions |
| Discrimination Law | CADA (all employers) |
| Filing Deadline | 300 days (CCRD) |
| Public Policy Exception | Yes |
Exceptions to At-Will Employment
1. Discrimination (CADA)
Cannot terminate based on protected characteristics. Covers ALL employers.
2. Public Policy Exception
Colorado recognizes broad exceptions for:
- Refusing to commit illegal acts
- Exercising statutory rights
- Performing public duties
- Reporting violations
3. Whistleblower Protection
Protected for reporting violations of law.
4. FAMLI Leave Retaliation
Cannot terminate for using FAMLI leave.
Filing Claims
Colorado Civil Rights Division
Phone: 303-894-2997 Deadline: 300 days
EEOC
Phone: 1-800-669-4000 Deadline: 300 days
Damages Available
- Back pay and front pay
- Compensatory damages
- Punitive damages
- Attorney's fees
Finding Legal Help
Free Resources
- CCRD: ccrd.colorado.gov{rel="nofollow"} | 303-894-2997
- EEOC: eeoc.gov{rel="nofollow"} | 1-800-669-4000
Related Resources
Legal Disclaimer
This guide provides general information about Colorado wrongful termination law and is not legal advice. For advice about your situation, consult a licensed Colorado employment attorney.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is 1. Discrimination (CADA)?
What is 2. Public Policy Exception?
What is 3. Whistleblower Protection?
What is 4. FAMLI Leave Retaliation?
What is colorado Civil Rights Division?
Related Articles
Fired in Colorado
Got fired in Colorado? Learn your rights under at-will employment, exceptions to wrongful termination, and how to file a claim if you were illegally terminated.
Colorado Constructive Discharge
Understand constructive discharge in Colorado, when a forced resignation counts as wrongful termination, how to prove it, and what remedies are available.
Colorado Wrongful Termination Damages
Learn what damages you can recover in a Colorado wrongful termination case including back pay, front pay, emotional distress, punitive damages, and attorney fees.
Colorado Wrongful Termination Statute of Limitations
Understand Colorado's wrongful termination filing deadlines including CADA's 300-day rule, EEOC deadlines, contract claims, and when the clock starts.