Termination

[pso4u]

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.

[cbg]

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

[pso4u]

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?

[cbg]

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.

[LaborLawNJ]

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.

[cbg]

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.

[LaborLawNJ]

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.