Glossary > Employment Law > Termination And Dismissal > General

Wrongful Termination

Wrongful termination refers to the unlawful firing of an employee. It occurs when an employee is discharged from their job for reasons that violate anti-discrimination laws, labor laws, or their employment contract.

Example #1

An employee is fired because of their age, even though they were performing well in their role.

Example #2

An employee is terminated after they report unsafe working conditions to the authorities.

Misuse

An example of wrongful termination could be if an employer fires an employee for reporting sexual harassment in the workplace. Protecting against wrongful termination is crucial to ensure that employees can speak up about illegal or unethical practices without fear of losing their job.

Benefits

One significant benefit of preventing wrongful termination is that it promotes a fair and safe work environment. When employees feel secure in their jobs and know they won't face reprisal for reporting wrongdoing, they are more likely to speak up about issues that need addressing, ultimately leading to a more accountable workplace.

Conclusion

Wrongful termination undermines employee rights and can have serious consequences for individuals who lose their livelihood unjustly. By safeguarding against wrongful termination, we uphold fairness, transparency, and integrity in the workplace, empowering employees to work in environments free from discrimination and illegal practices.