Employment in the state of Oklahoma is mostly considered to be "at-will" employment. "At will" means that for any reason, both the employer or the worker may end the work relationship at any time. In "at will" employment, the only general exception is that the reasons for termination must not be illegal or in violation of the law.

It is important 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. If an employment contract specifying a time for employment is involved for your work arrangements, then employment is not "at will", and termination can only be done following the terms of the contract.

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

The most common illegal ground for terminating an Oklahoma employee is discrimination. An employer cannot terminate an employee simply for being of a specific race, nationality, religion or gender. Pocola employers are further prohibited from firing at-will employees in order to retaliate against them for filing a legal discrimination claim or initiating an investigation of discrimination.

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, employees are protected from being fired by their employer for performing a legal obligation, exercising their legal rights, or for refusing to participate in an illegal act.

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

A local Pocola, Oklahoma 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.