Losing your job unexpectedly can throw your life into chaos, especially if you believe your boss treated you unfairly. Unfortunately, many workers hesitate to fight back because they assume “at-will” employment means their boss can do whatever they want. In these situations, it is crucial to understand your legal rights so you can decide whether to file a wrongful termination claim.
Terminating an employment relationship at will
At-will employment means that either the worker or the company can end the work relationship at any time. As an at-will employee, you have the freedom to quit a job whenever you choose if the workplace no longer meets your needs. This means your manager cannot legally penalize you for leaving unless a work contract or a union deal exists.
Similarly, this arrangement allows business leaders to let workers go for almost any legal reason. For example, they can let you go immediately because of budget cuts or a shift in the company’s long-term goals.
At-will employment and wrongful termination
While Oregon law allows businesses to fire employees without giving a warning, employers cannot use the at-will rule to hide illegal behavior. For instance, a manager can fire you because they dislike your performance, but they cannot fire you for discriminatory reasons. Under this rule, it is illegal to terminate workers based on protected characteristics, such as:
- Race
- Gender identity
- Sexual orientation
- Age
- Religion
- Disability
If your employer fires someone based on these traits, you can file a wrongful termination claim despite the company’s at-will work arrangement.
Seeking justice after a wrongful termination
Finding the true reason behind a job loss is a crucial step toward holding a firm liable for illegal employment practices. If your employer crossed the line and fired you illegally, you do not have to accept the loss quietly. It is wise to review the details of your termination and collect the right evidence to hold them accountable and protect your rights as an employee.