At-Will Employment - Virginia

Summary of differences between federal and state regulations

The general at-will employment doctrine is what employers generally refer to unless there are state laws that provide more detail. This is a situation in which there is a lack of laws or contracts that narrow the reasons for which employees may be terminated. Where such laws or contracts exist, they must be adhered to.

Virginia law does not require a discharge notice or a reason for discharge.

State courts have recognized the concept of public policy exception to the at-will employment concept; that is, it is illegal for an employer to terminate an employee for refusing to break the law on behalf of the employer.

State

Contact

Virginia Department of Labor and Industry

Regulations

As a general rule, the employee has not right to challenge termination. Virginia law prohibits discharge of an employee because the employee filed a safety or health complaint, or has testified or otherwise acted to exercise rights under the safety and health provisions of Virginia Code.

Federal

Contacts

None.

Regulations

None.