Can not having a college degree be used as an excuse for terminating an employee?
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Can not having a college degree be used as an excuse for terminating an employee?
I have been employed for 3 years as a successful Director. After a recent difference of opinion with a supervisor, I have been told they are considering letting me go because I do not have a college degree. I have a clean employee file. I know this is an excuse to terminate me but is it legal?
Asked on August 20, 2015 under Employment Labor Law, California
Answers:
SJZ, Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 8 years ago | Contributor
The only important question is whether you have a written employment contract limiting the reasons you could be terminated? If you have such a contract, you cannot be fired in violation of its terms if they do violate your contract, you could sue them for breach of contract. However, without an employment contract, you are an employee at will and as an employee at will, you may be fired at any time, for any reason whatsoever--including lack of a degree or any other reason. In this case, you would have no recourse.
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