Getting pulled into a workplace lawsuit

[GoodWorker32]

A coworker I struck up a friendship with got fired earlier this year. She reached out to me this week and asked if I'd be willing to back her up in a wrongful termination lawsuit. Here's what I told her: I'd vouch for her work habits...but saying something negative about the company is where I draw the line.

However, in the back of my mind, I'm concerned that getting involved in a workplace lawsuit at all could negatively impact my employment. What do I do?

[ULA]

Can i just asked are you based in England as you speak about a lawsuit which is more USA biased?

[GoodWorker32]

Correct, I am American. It appears this forum is British-based. Hopefully you'll still be able to help with American issues.

[ULA]

I am so sorry my experience is only based on English law so I cannot advise you on employment legal issues in the USA.

[echat11]

Is it weighing up a moral dilemma? Your friend against your future prospects. Me personally I'd always back the friend. I once backed my colleagues against the company. Maybe if other colleagues did the same, you'd feel more comfortable doing it.

[GoodWorker32]

Correct, ECHAT11, there's a moral dilemma. This is a dream job for me...so I don't want to do anything that could jeopardize it. At the same time, I'd like to help a friend as much as reasonably possible though.

I would never admit this to her...but in a way, I see why they fired her. She had a, let's say "strong," personality (which can be an asset or can rub people the wrong way). She also butted heads with higher ups. However, the quality of her work was outstanding.

In the end, I would honestly pick the job over the friend. But I'm seeing if there's maybe a way I could do a little of both.

[echat11]

Correct, ECHAT11, there's a moral dilemma. This is a dream job for me...so I don't want to do anything that could jeopardize it. At the same time, I'd like to help a friend as much as reasonably possible though.

I would never admit this to her...but in a way, I see why they fired her. She had a, let's say "strong," personality (which can be an asset or can rub people the wrong way). She also butted heads with higher ups. However, the quality of her work was outstanding.

In the end, I would honestly pick the job over the friend. But I'm seeing if there's maybe a way I could do a little of both.

You can say that she was 'outstanding at her job', will that help her in her lawsuit?
Although the company fired her, is her lack of ability to do her job the reason why they fired her? Surely her ability isn't disputed.

[GoodWorker32]

Good point. Seeing as the firing had nothing to do with her job ability, it likely won't help her if I mention she was superb at the job.

Let's say, to humor her, I agree to at least mention her talent (even though I know it won't do anything). Would the company have the right to fire me for getting involved in the lawsuit at all?

[des8]

I wouldn't mention her ability in relation to her work (unless you were responsible for her performance reviews as easily claimed you weren't in a position to know).
Just a general good character reference perhaps.

Nice and neutral, and in the UK would not be a reason for targeting you at work.