What types of employer conduct constitute wrongful termination?

Wrongful termination is the unlawful firing or dismissal of an employee by an employer. In Washington, wrongful termination occurs when an employee is fired or dismissed for an illegal reason. The state of Washington follows the rules of at-will employment which allows employers to terminate employees for any reason, so long as it does not violate the law. The following types of employer conduct constitute wrongful termination in Washington: discrimination, harassment, retaliation, breach of contract, violation of public policy, violation of whistleblower laws, violation of health and safety regulations, and failure to follow procedure. Discrimination refers to treating someone differently based on race, gender, age, disability, or other legally protected characteristics. Harassment refers to unwelcome behavior based on the same protected classes. Retaliation occurs when an employee is fired in response to making a complaint or filing a claim against the employer. Breach of contract occurs when the employer fails to meet their obligations as defined in an employment or other contract. Violation of public policy occurs when an employee is fired or dismissed for engaging in behavior that is a public right, or conduct protected by state or federal laws. Violation of whistleblower laws occurs when employees are fired for reporting illegal activities. Health and safety regulations are laws that require employers to provide a safe work environment. Failure to follow procedure occurs when an employer does not follow their own internal policies and procedures. All of these types of employer behavior constitute wrongful termination and can result in legal action for the employee.

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What types of employer conduct constitute wrongful termination?

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