WRONGFUL TERMINATION

Missouri does not have a specific wrongful termination statute. Generally speaking, Missouri is an "employment-at-will" state, which means an employee can quit at anytime, or be fired at anytime, without cause or reason. There are exceptions to this general rule, however. You cannot be fired:

• if it's discrimination (i.e., in violation of anti-discrimination laws);
• if it's sexual harassment in any way;
• if it goes against an employment agreement - even if the agreement isn't in writing;
• if it's in violation of any labor laws, including collective bargaining (union) laws;
• if you are a whistleblower (i.e., fired in retaliation for having filed a complaint or claim against the employer); or
• if you have been forced to quit (called "constructively discharged").
• If you have been fired, you may be entitled to severance pay, monetary damages, or unemployment compensation. You may have the basis for a wrongful termination lawsuit against your employer.
• If you believe that you are being forced out, or your termination is imminent, it is imperative that you insure that you know your rights are protected during this vulnerable time.

Please contact our firm for a free, initial consultation.

RESOURCES

For further information:

Missouri Department of Labor and Industrial Relations

Equal Employment Opportunity Commission

US Department of Labor