Wrongful Termination Laws in CO

Colorado is an "at will" employment state.

Employment in Colorado is "at will," meaning an employer may terminate an employee for any reason. Despite this designation, there are still circumstances in which it is illegal to fire someone. Wrongful termination laws in Colorado are similar to those in states where employment is not "at will."

Contract Employment

If an employee in Colorado is hired under a contract, the "at will" designation is not applicable and the employee can only be fired for reasons that are spelled out in the contract.

Medical Termination

Employers in Colorado cannot terminate an employee for taking leave under the Family and Medical Leave Act or for becoming pregnant. Firing someone because of a disability is also wrongful termination.

Legal Matters

If an employee files a suit against an employer charging him with discrimination, it is illegal to fire the employee. If the employee has evidence of safety violations and files a claim, he can't be fired for that reason alone. An employer cannot ask or expect an employee to engage in illegal acts and then fire him for refusing to break the law. An employee fired for performing a legal duty (such as jury duty) or for exercising a legal right has a case for wrongful termination.

Personal Matters

Colorado employers may not fire workers for any personal issues regarding race, sex, disability, age, religion or national origin.

Employer Policies

Employers in Colorado should have specific policies in place that outline which acts are firing offenses and which are not. Employers must follow these policies when it comes to termination. If the policy is not followed, the firing is considered wrongful termination.

References

• Lawyers.com: Employment Law in Colorado