Is it illegal to terminate an employee without just cause?

In Virginia, it is illegal for an employer to terminate an employee without just cause. Virginia is an “at-will” state, meaning that employers are free to terminate or lay off an employee for any legal reason, such as poor performance or misconduct. However, employers must still provide just cause for such terminations, as laid out in the Virginia Human Rights Act. Just cause for an employee to be terminated in Virginia includes things like violations of company policy, poor job performance, failure to follow directions, and criminal behavior. Without just cause, an employer cannot legally terminate an employee. If they do, the employee may be able to bring a claim of wrongful termination against their employer. If an employee believes they have been wrongfully terminated in Virginia, they may file a complaint with the Virginia Division of Human Rights or take legal action in the courts. A successful claim of wrongful termination can result in the employee being reinstated or awarded monetary damages. Overall, employers must provide just cause in order to legally terminate an employee in Virginia. Without it, the employee may be able to bring a claim of wrongful termination.

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