Trusted Employment Law And Personal Injury Attorney In Southeast Michigan

Can you get emotional distress damages in Michigan work cases?  

On Behalf of | Feb 7, 2025 | Employment Law

Michigan workers now seek more than just money when they face job discrimination. The mental and emotional harm from unfair treatment at work creates real damage that deserves fair compensation.  

What is emotional distress in workplace cases?  

When bosses or coworkers discriminate against you at work, it can lead to anxiety, depression and sleep problems. Michigan law calls these “non-economic damages.” You can ask for money to cover these mental health effects along with lost wages and other costs. But you’ll need to show clear proof that links your emotional problems to the discrimination you faced.  

How to prove emotional distress claims  

Michigan courts want solid proof before they award money for emotional harm. Here’s what helps build a strong case:  

  1. Doctor notes and mental health records 
  2. Witness statements from family or coworkers 
  3. Proof that shows how long the discrimination lasted 
  4. Records of work performance changes 
  5. Timeline of when problems started after discrimination 

The amount of money you might receive depends on:  

  • How bad the discrimination was  
  • How long it went on  
  • How much has it affected your daily life  
  • What proof do you have  
  • Past cases result in similar situations  

These claims need more than just your word. Courts look for medical records, therapy notes or statements from people who saw how the discrimination affected you.   

Getting emotional distress damages takes careful planning and proper timing. Michigan has strict deadlines for filing these claims. The proof must show actual harm that goes beyond everyday job stress.  

The rules for emotional distress claims can get tricky. Each case needs its approach based on the facts. An employment lawyer can review your situation and tell you what damages you might recover. They’ll also help gather the proper proof to support your claim before time runs out.