Most employment is terminable at will, but not all firings are lawful. Wrongful termination is the discharge of an employee in violation of a statute, contract, or public-policy exception that limits the employer’s right to fire.

Common bases include discrimination based on protected characteristics, retaliation for whistleblowing or protected leave, and breach of an express employment contract. Some jurisdictions recognize tort claims when discharge violates fundamental public policy. Remedies may include back pay, reinstatement, and damages.

Employers reduce risk with consistent documentation, non-discriminatory policies, and careful handling of protected activity. Employees who believe they were fired illegally often must act quickly under short filing deadlines at agencies or courts. The claim sits at the intersection of employment statutes and contract principles.

• Unlawful dismissal of an employee
• Based on statute, contract, or public policy
• Commonly linked to discrimination or retaliation
• Remedies include pay, reinstatement, and damages