I live in Oregon and the state the company I worked for is in Pa. I was an idependant contractor for a PSO company. I know they have the right to let me go at any time, but they stated in my termination letter reasons for firing me that were not true. I think I can prove (or at least provide a serious doubt) that it wasn't true. I don't want my job back or money from them. All I want is a public apology. In my line of work reputation is very important and now my rep. is tarnished for something I never did.

Thank you for sharing your story. When you have a legal question, please let us know.

Do they have the right to fire me for something that isn't true? All they had to do was say your services are no longer needed. Can I sue them for an apology?

Yes, they can fire you for something they believe you did, even if they are mistaken. You will have to discuss your situation with a local attorney to determine whether or not you have a case for damages.

CBG is correct they can terminate you for any reason or no reason at all.

However, if they do give a reason and that reason is false, as you claim, you may have a potential cause of action for defamation.

Regards.

LLNJ means if they give a reason to a third party, like a prospective employer. He doesn't mean if they give the reason to you.

CBG is correct, the employer can be liable for defamation if they give a false reason for your termination to a third party.

However, the employer can also be liable for defamation if you have to disclose to a third party the reason for your termination. For example, if asked in a future interview why did you leave xyz employer. This concept is known as self publication.

To avoid all of this you should seek the advice of counsel so at a minimum, an agreed upon reason for seperation can be negotiated.

Regards.