Can My Employer Retaliate From A Workers Comp Claim
Finder Law Serves Clients Across Jefferson City, Columbia, and Central Missouri
Kara McNabb • January 22, 2025
Workers’ compensation is a vital protection for employees who are injured on the job. In Missouri, employees who sustain injuries in the workplace are generally entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and rehabilitation. However, many employees wonder whether filing a workers' compensation claim could result in retaliation from their employer. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the legal protections available to workers in Missouri against retaliation after filing a workers' compensation claim and what steps employees can take if they believe they’ve been retaliated against.

What is Retaliation in the Context of Workers’ Compensation?
Retaliation occurs when an employer takes adverse action against an employee for engaging in a protected activity, such as filing a workers' compensation claim. Adverse actions may include things like:
- Termination
- Demotion
- Reduction in pay or hours
- Harassment or mistreatment
- Disciplinary action or unfavorable performance evaluations
Employees are legally protected from retaliation under both Missouri law and federal law, which aim to ensure that employees can seek the benefits they are entitled to without fear of losing their job or facing other negative consequences.

Missouri Workers' Compensation Law and Retaliation
Under Missouri law, workers' compensation is a no-fault system. This means that employees who are injured on the job don’t need to prove that their employer was negligent to receive benefits. In exchange, employees give up the right to sue their employer for personal injury. However, this does not mean that employees give up all rights, particularly when it comes to protecting themselves from retaliation.
Missouri law specifically prohibits employers from retaliating against employees for filing a workers’ compensation claim. According to Missouri Revised Statutes Section 287.780, it is illegal for an employer to fire, threaten, or otherwise retaliate against an employee for filing a workers' compensation claim or for testifying in a workers' compensation proceeding. The law states that an employee’s decision to file a claim or participate in a workers’ compensation case is a protected activity.

How Can Employees Prove Retaliation?
If an employee suspects that their employer has retaliated against them for filing a workers’ compensation claim, they must demonstrate that the employer's action was directly linked to the claim. While retaliation can be difficult to prove, employees may use the following types of evidence to support their claim:
- Timing of the Adverse Action: If an employer takes adverse action (such as termination or demotion) shortly after an employee files a workers' compensation claim, the timing may suggest retaliation. While timing alone may not be enough to prove retaliation, it can be an important factor in building the case.
- Comparative Evidence: Employees may also demonstrate that others who did not file a workers' compensation claim or who did not have any similar issues were not subject to the same adverse action. For example, if an employee who filed a claim is suddenly demoted, but other employees in similar situations were not, this may suggest retaliation.
- Statements or Documentation: Statements made by the employer or management that show hostility toward the workers' compensation claim can be strong evidence of retaliation. Documentation such as emails, memos, or performance evaluations that specifically reference the claim or injury may also be useful.
- Changes in Job Conditions: If an employee’s job conditions change drastically after filing a workers' compensation claim, such as being assigned to less favorable tasks or being placed on leave, this can be an indication of retaliation.
What Are the Legal Protections for Employees?
If an employee believes they have been retaliated against for filing a workers' compensation claim in Missouri, they have legal recourse. Employees can file a retaliation lawsuit against their employer for wrongful termination or other forms of retaliation. In these cases, the employee can seek remedies such as:
- Reinstatement to their position
- Back pay (for lost wages)
- Compensation for emotional distress or other damages
- Attorneys' fees and costs associated with the retaliation claim
Additionally, an employee may file a complaint with the Missouri Division of Workers’ Compensation. The division handles workers' compensation claims and can investigate complaints of retaliation. While the Division may not directly intervene in retaliation cases, an employee can seek advice and resources from the agency for the next steps.

Can an Employer Defend Against a Retaliation Claim?
Employers can defend against a retaliation claim by proving that the adverse action taken was based on legitimate, non-retaliatory reasons. For example, an employer may argue that an employee was terminated for poor performance, business reasons, or violations of company policies unrelated to the workers' compensation claim. If the employer can provide clear evidence that the action taken was unrelated to the claim, it may defeat the retaliation claim.
However, employers cannot simply use these defenses without showing concrete evidence. If the employee can establish that the real reason for the adverse action was the filing of the claim, the defense will likely fail.

Steps to Take If You Believe You’re a Victim of Retaliation
If you believe your employer has retaliated against you for filing a workers' compensation claim, it’s important to take action promptly. Here are the steps you should follow:
- Document Everything: Keep detailed records of the adverse actions taken by your employer, including dates, times, and any communications related to your workers' compensation claim and your job. Collect emails, performance reviews, and any other documents that might show retaliation.
- Consult with an Attorney: Consult with an experienced workers' compensation attorney or employment lawyer who can help you understand your rights and determine the best course of action. An attorney can help you gather evidence, evaluate your claim, and file a lawsuit if necessary.
- File a Complaint: If you believe your employer’s actions were retaliatory, you may file a complaint with the Missouri Division of Workers’ Compensation or the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) if you suspect other violations of employment law occurred alongside retaliation.
- Consider Legal Action: In some cases, legal action may be necessary to resolve the retaliation claim. If you have been terminated or otherwise retaliated against for filing a workers’ compensation claim, an experienced attorney can help you pursue a lawsuit for wrongful termination or retaliation.

Conclusion
Retaliation for filing a workers' compensation claim is illegal in Missouri. Employees have the right to seek workers' compensation benefits without the fear of being punished or discriminated against by their employer. If you believe you’ve been retaliated against for filing a workers' compensation claim, it’s crucial to seek legal advice to protect your rights and hold your employer accountable.
If you are facing retaliation in the workplace, contact our office for a consultation. Daniel Finder at Finder Law, LLC has over a decade of experience in worker’s compensation law and fight for your fair treatment. We’re here to help you navigate your rights and ensure you receive the compensation and protection you deserve.
This blog is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For specific guidance, please contact our office directly.
Head-on collisions are among the most dangerous types of car accidents on Missouri roads. These crashes often result in severe injuries, extensive property damage, and, tragically, fatalities. If you or a loved one has been involved in a head-on crash, understanding your legal rights is critical. This guide explains how head-on collisions happen, who may be at fault under Missouri law, and what steps you should take to protect your claim.
Facing a “no license” or “failure to register” ticket in Missouri can be frustrating—especially when you actually are licensed or registered, but didn’t have the proof in the vehicle. Here’s how to protect yourself and your driving record. Understanding These Missouri Charges Missouri law requires you both to have a valid driver’s license and to comply with registration and plate requirements for your vehicle. Common situations include: You have a valid driver’s license, but it was not physically on you when stopped. The car is properly titled and registered, but the paperwork or plate information was missing, outdated, or not in the vehicle. Courts and prosecutors often treat “no license on person” or technical registration issues less harshly than truly driving unlicensed or failing to register at all, especially if you can quickly show proof that you were actually in compliance. What to Do After You Get the Ticket If you receive a citation but you actually had a valid license or registration at the time: Locate your proof immediately Find your valid Missouri driver’s license or renewal record. Find your current registration, title, or renewal documents showing the vehicle was properly registered. Fix any lingering issues fast If something really was expired or late, get it renewed or corrected before your court date. Keep receipts and confirmations, and bring copies with you. Bring proof to court (or to your attorney) Many Missouri courts will dismiss or reduce “no license on person” or minor registration charges if you can show that: You had a valid license at the time of the stop, or The vehicle is now properly registered and compliant. Do not just plead guilty online Even if a charge looks minor, paying it online may create a record or points that could have been avoided if the ticket had been dismissed or amended. Possible Outcomes When You Show Proof When you can prove you were actually licensed or properly registered, common outcomes in Missouri courts may include: Dismissal of the charge upon showing proof of a valid license or corrected registration. Reduction to a lesser or non-moving violation, which can help avoid points and insurance increases. Payment of court costs only, even if the citation itself is dismissed. Exact results depend on the specific court, judge, and prosecutor, as well as your prior record, but having a lawyer present your documentation often improves your chances. Why It Still Makes Sense to Talk to an Attorney Even a “technical” ticket can have consequences if handled the wrong way. A Missouri traffic attorney can: Review your ticket, driving record, and registration history for problems or defenses. Contact the prosecutor to show proof of compliance and negotiate dismissal or reduction. Help you avoid unnecessary points, fines, or a record that could affect insurance and employment. For repeat issues—or if there’s any question about whether your license or registration were actually valid—legal help is especially important because penalties can escalate to higher-level misdemeanors. Call Finder Law, LLC for Help With Missouri License and Registration Tickets If you’ve been cited in Missouri for failure to register or driving without a license when your real issue was that the paperwork or license wasn’t in the vehicle, you may have more options than you think. Finder Law, LLC can help you gather the right proof, communicate with the court, and work toward dismissal or reduction of the charges. Call Daniel Finder at Finder Law, LLC today to discuss your ticket, your documentation, and the best way to protect your record and your driving privileges.
A wreck at Eastbound I-70 at the 96.2 mile marker occurred in Cooper County the morning of May 13, 2026. A 2017 Freightliner Cascadia, driven by a 35-year-old man from Independence, ran off the left side of the roadway. The driver overcorrected and hit a 2024 Freightliner Cascadia, driven by a 42-year-old Garden City man and ran off the right side of the road. The 2017 Cascadia then crossed the road and overturned. The Independence man was transported to University Hospital by ambulance with moderate injuries. Collisions involving two semi-trucks can result in some of the most dangerous and catastrophic accidents on the road. When one commercial truck crashes into another, the force of the impact can lead to multi-vehicle pileups, overturned trailers, spilled cargo, fires, and severe roadway hazards for everyone nearby. These accidents are often caused by driver fatigue, speeding, distracted driving, unsafe lane changes, poor weather conditions, or violations of federal trucking safety regulations. Because semi-truck crashes frequently involve multiple trucking companies, insurance carriers, and complex liability issues, investigating these accidents requires experienced legal representation. If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident involving two semi-trucks, contact Daniel Finder at Finder Law LLC today. An experienced personal injury attorney can help investigate the crash, determine who is responsible, and fight for the compensation you deserve for medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and other damages. All facts are based on preliminary reports from the Missouri State Highway Patrol.
Two vehicles were totaled in a Morgan County car crash on May 11, 2026 on MO 5 at MO 135. A 2026 Toyota Camry, driven by a 54-year-old man from Texas, was slowing to make a left hand turn when a 2024 Dodge Durango, driven by a 26-year-old Versailles man struck the Toyota in the rear. The driver of the Toyota was taken by ambulance to Lake Regional Hospital with moderate injuries. Rear-end collisions can also happen when drivers are distracted, fatigued, or fail to pay attention to changing traffic conditions. A momentary glance at a phone, GPS device, or even a conversation inside the vehicle can prevent a driver from noticing that traffic ahead has slowed or stopped. These crashes often occur at stoplights, in heavy traffic, or during sudden slowdowns on highways, and they can leave victims with painful injuries that require extensive medical treatment and recovery time. Injuries from rear-end accidents may not always appear immediately, making it important to seek medical attention as soon as possible after a crash. If you were injured in a rear-end collision caused by another driver’s negligence, contact Daniel Finder at Finder Law LLC today. An experienced personal injury attorney can help you understand your legal options and pursue compensation for your medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and other damages. All facts are based on preliminary reports from the Missouri State Highway Patrol.
A crash occurred in Camden County on May 11, 2026 on MO 7 at MO 5. A 68-year-old woman from Camdenton, driving a 2002 Oldsmobile Alero, was following a 2014 Volkswagen Passat, driven by a 69-year-old female from Oklahoma, too closely when the Oldsmobile struck the rear of the Volkswagen. The driver from Oklahoma was taken by ambulance to Lake Regional Hospital with minor injuries. Rear-end collisions are often caused by drivers who follow too closely and fail to leave enough distance to stop safely. Tailgating reduces reaction time and greatly increases the likelihood of a crash when traffic suddenly slows or stops. Even at lower speeds, a rear-end accident can result in serious injuries such as whiplash, neck and back injuries, concussions, and long-term chronic pain. In many cases, the driver who rear-ends another vehicle may be held responsible for the damages caused by the collision. If you have been injured in a rear-end accident caused by a careless or distracted driver, you should not have to deal with the financial and physical consequences alone. Contact Daniel Finder at Finder Law LLC today to discuss your case and learn how an experienced personal injury attorney can help you pursue the compensation you deserve for your injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. All facts are based on preliminary reports from the Missouri State Highway Patrol.
Two vehicles were totaled in a Callaway County crash on May 9, 2026 on Old US 40 at Route M. The crash occurred when a 74-year-old Fulton man driving a 2025 Honda CRV pulled out in front of a 2017 Chevrolet Silverado, driven by a 69-year-old man from New Haven. The driver of the Honda was taken by ambulance to University Hospital with minor injuries. When another driver suddenly pulls out in front of you, there is often little or no time to react. These accidents commonly occur at intersections, parking lot exits, side streets, or when a driver fails to yield the right of way. Even a careful driver traveling at a safe speed may be unable to avoid a collision when another vehicle unexpectedly enters their path. The impact can cause serious injuries, including whiplash, back injuries, broken bones, and traumatic brain injuries, leaving victims facing medical bills, lost wages, and ongoing pain. If you were injured because another driver pulled out in front of you, you may be entitled to compensation for your damages.  Contact Daniel Finder at Finder Law LLC today to discuss your case and learn how an experienced personal injury attorney can help protect your rights and fight for the compensation you deserve. All facts are based on preliminary reports from the Missouri State Highway Patrol.
When a loved one passes away, navigating the probate process can already feel overwhelming. Add liens into the equation, and things can quickly become more complicated. If you’re dealing with a probate case in Missouri, understanding how liens work—and how they affect estate administration—is essential. This guide breaks down what liens are, how they apply in Missouri probate cases, and what you should do if you encounter one.
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A multi-vehicle crash occurred in Osage County on May 7, 2026. A 1993 Ford F-150, driven by a 30-year-old man from Meta, crossed the center line and struck a 2020 GMC Sierra, driven by a 66-year-old St. Elizabeth man. The GMC then hit a 2025 Cadillac XT4 driven by a 44-year-old man from Freeburg when it was rotating in the roadway. The Cadillac ultimately struck a farm fence. The drivers of the Ford and GMC were both transported by private vehicle to Capital Regional Hospital with minor injuries. The GMC was totaled in the crash, but the other vehicles had minor to moderate damage. Multi-vehicle crashes are often chaotic and devastating, leaving victims with serious injuries, extensive property damage, and uncertainty about who is responsible. Pileups involving several drivers can make insurance claims and liability disputes especially complicated, while injured victims are left facing medical treatment, lost wages, and emotional trauma. If you were injured in a multi-vehicle accident caused by negligent or reckless driving, you should not have to navigate the legal process alone. Contact Daniel Finder at Finder Law, LLC today for experienced personal injury representation and dedicated legal support focused on helping you pursue the compensation and justice you deserve. All facts are based on preliminary reports from the Missouri State Highway Patrol.
A Camdenton man was seriously injured in a crash in Morgan County on May 4, 2026. A 21-year-old man from Barnett, driving a 2019 Chevrolet Silverado, rear-ended the 22-year-old Camdenton man, driving a 2018 Honda Accord, when he was stopped behind a vehicle waiting to make a left turn. The Camdenton man was transported by ambulance to Lake Regional Hospital. Both vehicles were totaled. A rear-end crash can leave victims dealing with painful injuries, mounting medical bills, lost income, and emotional stress long after the accident happens. Even collisions that seem minor at first can cause serious neck, back, and spinal injuries that disrupt daily life and require ongoing treatment. If you or a loved one has been hurt in a rear-end accident caused by another driver’s negligence, it’s important to protect your rights and seek experienced legal guidance. Contact Daniel Finder at Finder Law, LLC today for trusted personal injury representation and a dedicated advocate who will fight to help you recover the compensation you deserve. All facts are based on preliminary reports from the Missouri State Highway Patrol.
