If you’ve recently been wrongfully terminated in Maryland, you might be considering legal action—but wondering how long the process will take. That’s a fair and important question. Legal proceedings can be emotionally and financially taxing, and the timeline can vary significantly based on the complexity of the case, the type of claim, and whether a settlement is reached early on.
In this blog post, we’ll break down the typical timeline of a wrongful termination case in Maryland, from the moment you file a complaint to the resolution, whether through settlement or trial.
Key Factors That Affect the Timeline
Before diving into a step-by-step timeline, it’s important to understand that each case is different. Several factors can speed up or delay your case, including:
- The strength of your evidence
- Whether your employer is willing to settle
- Whether you’re filing in state or federal court
- The court’s schedule and backlog
- Whether your claim requires administrative review (e.g., EEOC)
Now let’s walk through what to expect, step by step.
Step 1: Initial Consultation and Case Evaluation (1–3 Weeks)
Your case starts with meeting a wrongful termination lawyer. During this consultation, the attorney will review your employment documents, termination details, and any evidence of unlawful conduct. They’ll determine whether you have a viable claim under Maryland or federal law.
If they agree to take the case, you’ll sign a representation agreement and begin preparing to file a claim.
Step 2: Filing a Charge with the EEOC or MCCR (Optional but Often Required)
Time: 2–10 Months
If your case involves discrimination, retaliation, or harassment, you typically must file a charge with either:
- The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC)
- The Maryland Commission on Civil Rights (MCCR)
You must do this within 300 days of the date of your termination. Once your charge is filed, the agency investigates, may request additional information, and often attempts mediation between you and your employer.
The investigation process can take 6–10 months or more. If the agency cannot resolve the issue, it may issue a Right to Sue letter, which allows you to file a lawsuit in court.
⚠️ Note: If your claim doesn’t involve discrimination (e.g., breach of contract or public policy violation), you may skip this step and proceed directly to court.
Step 3: Filing a Lawsuit in Court
Time: Within 90 Days of Right to Sue Letter (if applicable)
Once you’ve received your Right to Sue letter, or if you’re not required to go through the EEOC, your attorney will file a civil complaint in a Maryland state court or federal court.
From this point forward, your case officially enters the litigation phase.
Step 4: Discovery Phase
Time: 4–9 Months
Discovery is often the longest part of a wrongful termination case. During this phase, both sides exchange documents, take depositions, and gather evidence. This includes:
- Emails and personnel files
- Witness testimony
- Employment contracts or handbooks
- Performance reviews
- Pay records
If discovery reveals strong evidence supporting your claim, your employer may be more inclined to settle.
Step 5: Settlement Negotiations or Mediation
Time: Can Occur Anytime, Often Around 6–12 Months In
Most wrongful termination cases settle before trial. If your attorney presents strong evidence, or if the employer wants to avoid public exposure or legal fees, they may offer a settlement.
Settlement can happen:
- Informally (between attorneys)
- Through formal mediation (a structured process led by a neutral third party)
- On the courthouse steps (just before trial)
If a fair settlement is reached, the case ends here and you receive compensation—often including back pay, emotional distress damages, and attorney’s fees.
Step 6: Trial (If No Settlement Is Reached)
Time: 12–24+ Months After Filing
If settlement fails, your case will go to trial. A jury (or judge) will hear both sides, review evidence, and decide whether you were wrongfully terminated and what damages you’re owed.
Trials can last from a few days to several weeks, and the court’s availability will impact how soon your case is heard. After the verdict, either side may appeal, adding more time to the process.
Total Estimated Timeline
| Phase | Estimated Duration |
| Case Evaluation | 1–3 weeks |
| EEOC/MCCR Investigation | 6–10 months (if required) |
| Filing Lawsuit | Immediate after right to sue |
| Discovery | 4–9 months |
| Settlement Negotiations | Can happen anytime |
| Trial (if needed) | 12–24+ months |
Average Total Time: 12–24 months, but shorter if resolved early in the process.
Final Thoughts
Wrongful termination cases in Maryland take time—but with patience, preparation, and strong legal support, you can protect your rights and potentially recover meaningful compensation. Whether your case is resolved in a few months or requires a courtroom battle, having an experienced employment attorney by your side makes all the difference.
If you believe you were wrongfully terminated, don’t wait. Speak to a trusted Maryland wrongful termination lawyer to begin your case and get clarity on your path forward. We recommend wrongful termination attorney dc.
