Wrongful Termination That Violates Public Policy
What is “Wrongful Termination”?
“Wrongful Termination” occurs when an employer fires an employee in a manner that is illegal. Wrongful termination may be classified into three different types:
- Violation of statutes: The termination involved a violation of a law or statute, such as discrimination or retaliatory discharge against the employee.
- Breach of contract: The termination was based on a breach of any provisions contained in an employment contract, such as terms regarding wages or hiring
- Violation of public policy: The termination is wrongful because it violates public policy- for example, if the employee was fired for refusing to participate in an illegal act
Employees who are wrongfully terminated may be able to recover damages for losses in connection with the firing. They may be able to recover lost wages, get their job back, or require the employee to adjust their employment policies.
How can a Termination Violate Public Policy?
Public policy is basically a set of social norms which most people would agree upon. It is similar to the idea of “common sense”. An example of public policy is the idea that people should not be punished for exercising a legal right.
Public policy is not contained in any body of laws or statutes. However, an act such as wrongful termination may be considered illegal if it goes against general principles of public policy.
Some common examples of terminations that would violate public policy include:
- Firing an employee for exercising their legal rights, for example the right to vote
- Firing an employee who has refused to do commit an illegal act, for example falsifying reports or submitting a fraudulent company tax document
- Firing an employee because they reported illegal misconduct that they observed in the company or business
Public policy standards may vary widely by region and according to the nature of the employment. Thus, when reviewing a wrongful termination claim involving public policy, a court will usually make a case-by-case analysis to determine whether a violation has occurred.
What are the Remedies for Wrongful Termination?
Wrongful termination claims must usually be investigated by a government agency first before a private lawsuit may be filed. If the investigating agency finds that the employer is in violation, possible remedies may include:
- Restoring the employee to their previous employment position
- Paying the employee lost wages and reinstating any benefits
- Making necessary changes to policies and employee handbooks
If a government investigation cannot resolve the dispute, the employee can usually file a civil lawsuit, in which they may be able to obtain the remedies listed above. Also, if criminal charges are involved, the employer may become subject to further penalties such as fines and/or jail time.
Do I need a Lawyer for Wrongful Terminations that Violate Public Policy?
If you are involved in a dispute over an employment termination, you may be able to obtain a remedy based on public policy principles. If you have any questions regarding public policy arguments, you may wish to consult a lawyer for advice. Your employment law attorney will be able to explain to you the various laws of your jurisdiction. They will be familiarized with how public policies are applied in your area, and can represent your claim accordingly.
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Last Modified: 03-25-2011 03:32 PM PDT
