What is the difference between wrongful termination and unlawful dismissal?

Wrongful termination and unlawful dismissal are both forms of illegal termination of employment at work. However, the two types of termination differ in a few key ways. Wrongful termination occurs when an employee is discharged from their job in violation of the employers written or implied contractual agreement. This includes termination for reasons that are discriminatory or breach of implied contract such as termination because of age, race, gender, disability or in retaliation for pursuing a complaint regarding a violation of the law. Unlawful dismissal, on the other hand, occurs when an employee is discharged from their job in violation of an applicable statute or public policy. This includes termination because of a refusal to engage in activities that are prohibited by law, due to whistle-blowing activities or for a reason that violates a fundamental public policy. Both wrongful termination and unlawful dismissal are considered illegal in North Carolina. Such actions can result in civil damages for backpay, front pay, reinstatement, and punitive damages. Moreover, North Carolina state laws also provide for treble damages in cases of willful violations, which means any damages awarded to the employee can triple in value.

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What is the difference between wrongful termination and unlawful dismissal?

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