The majority of employment relationships in Texas fall into the category of "at-will" employment. This form of setup means that either employer or the employee is free to end the employment at any time they desire. The only general exception in "at-will" employment arrangements is that the termination may not be done for reasons which violate the law.

Employment not falling in the "at will" category is subject to different limitations and requirements, so you should be sure to know the classification of your work setup. Generally, if your employment arrangement was for a set term, it is not "at will", and the employment can only be terminated according to procedure contained in the contract.

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

Discrimination is the most common unlawful grounds for terminating an employee in Texas. Employers are not allowed to terminate an employee because of their race, religion, nationality, or gender. Employers in Johnson County 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.

Also, 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. Finally, employees are protected from being terminated 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 Texas Attorney for My Wrongful Termination Case?

Attorneys in Johnson County, Texas may be able to inform you as to whether a wrongful termination has occurred, and can assist you in preparing the required documents for your case. There may also be unique or unfamiliar procedures, and an attorney can guide you through these as well.