In an at will state, what can I be fired for?
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In an at will state, what can I be fired for?
I live in an at will state. I’ve recently started a new employer and signed a contract agreeing to their rules and procedures. They state that I will follow the dress code, am only able to miss 24 hours in total for this amount of time for emergencies, and other standard company rules. No where in this contract does it state how emergencies are determined. I’ve recently found out I have to take my son to the dentist and I will miss around 1-2 hours. The supervisor basically berated me and told me that my job is on the line because an appointment is not deemed an emergency. I’ve never been late or missed a day until this following week where I will miss the 1-2 hours. Since I live in a at-will state, does that mean they can fire me over missing 1-2 hours? I just need to know some of my rights I have here.
Asked on September 26, 2019 under Employment Labor Law, Indiana
Answers:
M.D., Member, California and New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 5 years ago | Contributor
The fact is that most work relationships are "at will". This means that a worker can be terminated for any reason or no reason at all, with or without notice. Accordingly, withou a union agreement or employment contract to the contrary, you have no claim here. Basically, a business can set the conditions of employment much as it sees fit (absent some form of legally actionable discrimination).
M.D., Member, California and New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 5 years ago | Contributor
The fact is that most work relationships are "at will". This means that a worker can be terminated for any reason or no reason at all, with or without notice. Accordingly, withou a union agreement or employment contract to the contrary, you have no claim here. Basically, a business can set the conditions of employment much as it sees fit (absent some form of legally actionable discrimination).
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