In the Commonwealth of Virginia, the standard employment relationship is “at-will.” This means that either the employer or the employee can terminate the relationship at any time, for any reason not prohibited by law, and without notice. However, certain legal doctrines and public policies create limits to this seemingly unrestricted power. These limitations, carved out through case law and statutes, protect employees from wrongful termination in specific circumstances.
These safeguards provide crucial stability and fairness within the Virginia workforce. They ensure that employers cannot dismiss employees for reasons that violate public policy, established contractual agreements, or implied covenants of good faith and fair dealing. Historically, the development of these exceptions reflects a societal shift towards balancing the power dynamic inherent in employment relationships, acknowledging the potential for exploitation and the need for employee protections. This legal framework encourages ethical employer conduct and fosters a more secure and equitable work environment.
