Most employment in Indiana considered to be "at-will". This means that either the employer or employee can terminate the employment at any particular moment, and for any reason. The only exception to this are reasons that the law has particularly outlined as impermissible to use as a basis for employee termination.

It is essential that you find out what type of employment your work is classified as, because employment that is not considered to be "at will" is subject to different restrictions. Arrangements for employment that are under a defined term contract are not "at will", and can only be terminated according to the clauses contained in the agreement.

What are the Illegal Grounds for Terminating At Will Employment in Indiana?

The most common illegal ground for terminating an Indiana employee is discrimination. An employer cannot terminate an employee simply for being of a certain race, nationality, religion or gender. Employers in Portage may also not terminate at-will employees as an act of retaliation if they have filed a legal discrimination claim or initiated an investigation into discrimination.

Furthermore, according to the Family and Medical leave, employers are prohibited from firing employees who take leave for family or medical purposes. Lastly, employers are prevented from terminating an employee because they have exercised a legal right, performed a legal obligation, or have refused to do something that is illegal.

Do I Need a Indiana Attorney for My Wrongful Termination Case?

A local Portage, Indiana attorney can better inform you about whether a wrongful termination has occurred, and will also help in collecting the appropriate documents for your case. There may also be unique procedures that an attorney can shepherd you through.