At-Will Employment
You have rights. Our attorneys can fight for them
Employers need to follow very strict guidelines when hiring and firing workers. Unfortunately, some companies play fast and loose with the rules. Some arbitrarily decide to fire a loyal employee who didn’t do anything wrong.
Unfortunately, employment law in West Virginia generally gives companies the right to terminate an employee without warning. These laws are known as At-Will Employment laws.
But such rules and regulations are not as simple or straightforward as many people might think. Employees do have rights. That’s why it’s important to talk to an attorney at Klie Law Offices as soon as possible if you believe you have been wrongfully terminated.
What is at-will employment?
At-will employment laws have existed for more than a century. Under such laws, employers can technically hire or fire anyone at any time for any lawful reason, and employees are likewise free to leave their jobs without notice.
However, just because you are employed “at will” doesn’t mean your employer can fire you for any reason. There are several state and federal laws that prohibit firing an employee for certain reasons, including:
- Discrimination laws – Companies cannot fire an employee on the basis of their gender, race, religion, disability, national origin or other protected category.
- Breach of contract – At-will employment means that most workers don’t have a contract, but if you do have a contract, then your employer must comply with the terms of that contract, including any stipulations about ending your employment.
- Retaliating against workers – Employees cannot be fired for filing a complaint against the company in good faith or other legally protected activities, including union activities, requesting FMLA leave, and talking about your wages and benefits.
How can a West Virginia lawyer help me?
Knowing what to do in such cases can be confusing. That’s why it’s critical that you talk to an attorney at our law firm as soon as possible about your potential case. You have rights. And our law firm can vigorously represent them.
Depending on the circumstances of your case, we may file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Labor. Or after consulting with us, you may decide to have us file a lawsuit on your behalf against your employer.
Such decisions can be very complicated and can have a major impact on your life. That’s why it’s critical that you consult with an attorney at our law firm right away. Contact us and schedule your free case evaluation today. We know how to get the job done right.