Yes, you can be wrongfully fired even if you are employed at-will. There are multiple wrongful termination standards that protect employees in at-will employment relationships. This ensures that there are a multitude of scenarios in which a worker’s rights are protected, even for non-contracted work. For example, if a termination is a violation of public policy or of an implied contract, it can be disputed.
What Does At-Will Employment Actually Mean?
At-will employment generally means that an employer does not need to provide advance notice or cause before terminating an employee. New Jersey is an at-will state, but employers cannot use at-will status as a shield to violate legal protections.
If a termination crosses into discrimination, retaliation, or other prohibited conduct, it may qualify as wrongful termination regardless of at-will status. An employment lawyer can help you understand if you have a case.
When Can an At-Will Termination Be Illegal?
An at-will employee may be wrongfully terminated if the firing violates public policy, statutory protections, or contractual obligations. Common examples include termination based on race, age, religion, disability, pregnancy, and more. Employees are also protected from retaliation for reporting harassment, discrimination, wage violations, or unsafe working conditions.
Call an Employment Lawyer at McOmber McOmber & Luber, P.C., if You Have Faced Wrongful Termination
If you believe you were fired for an unlawful reason, it is important to speak with an employment law attorney as soon as possible. By calling McOmber McOmber & Luber, P.C., for a free legal consultation, our lawyers can review your situation, explain your rights, and help determine whether your at-will termination violated New Jersey law.
