What constitutes wrongful termination?

Wrongful termination is the illegal firing of an employee in the state of Washington. It occurs when an employee is terminated in violation of their employment contract, applicable laws, or public policy. This kind of termination is also known as “wrongful dismissal” or “wrongful discharge.” In Washington, wrongful termination generally involves one of the following scenarios: a violation of the employee’s written or oral contract terms; an illegal reason such as discrimination, age, or disability; a breach of public policy such as a retaliation for whistleblowing; or any form of harassment or hostile work environment. Employers are not permitted to terminate employees based on race, gender, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, or sexual orientation. Additionally, employers are obligated to pay their employees for any work performed with reasonable accuracy and on the promised schedule. Employers also cannot fire an employee if the employee can no longer work due to a work-related injury. They are obligated to make reasonable accommodations for employees who are disabled and cannot perform their job duties. Additionally, they cannot terminate employees due to their participation in an investigation related to a violation of the law or public policy. In Washington, if an employee feels that they have been wrongfully terminated, they have the right to file a complaint with the Washington State Office of Human Rights. They may also be able to pursue a lawsuit in court. Before filing a lawsuit, it is important to consult with a knowledgeable attorney.

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