In Florida, employment is considered "at-will," meaning that the employer or the employee can terminate the employment relationship at any time and for any reason, except for reasons that are prohibited by law.
There are several prohibited reasons for terminating an employee, including discrimination based on race, gender, age, religion, national origin, disability, or pregnancy. Terminating an employee for reporting a violation of the law or for participating in an investigation or legal proceeding related to a violation is also prohibited.
To protect against potential legal action, it is recommended that employers document the reason for termination to show that it was not discriminatory or retaliatory. It is also recommended that employers follow any policies or procedures outlined in the employee handbook or employment contract when terminating an employee.
In addition, if an employee is a member of a union, the employer may be required to follow specific termination procedures outlined in the collective bargaining agreement.
Overall, it is important for employers to ensure that any termination decisions are based on legitimate business reasons and not made in violation of any applicable laws or regulations. If an employer is unsure about the legality of a termination decision, they should seek guidance from a licensed attorney.
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