Most employment in Michigan considered to be "at-will". This means that either the employer or employee can terminate the employment at any given moment, and for any reason. Basically, the only limitation or exception in an "at will" employment is that the termination must not conflict with the law.

Employment arrangements that do not qualify as "at will" are not subject to the same limitations and restrictions, so it is important that you know how your work setup is classified. Work arrangements that are based on an employment contract are often not "at will", and so they cannot be terminated except according to the contract provisions.

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

The most common illegal ground for terminating a Michigan employee is discrimination. An employer cannot terminate an employee simply for being of a specific race, nationality, religion or gender. An employer in Ishpeming also cannot fire at-will employees in retaliation for the employee filing a claim for discrimination or initiating an investigation of discrimination against the employer.

Additionally, employers are prohibited by the Family and Medical Leave act from firing those employees who take leave in order to address family or medical concerns. Lastly, employers cannot fire employees who are simply exercising a legal right, performing an obligation under law, or refusing to do an illegal act.

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

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