What is labor & employment law?
The term “labor and employment law” refers to the body of legal doctrines and principles that govern the employer-employee relationship. Sources for labor and employment law include federal and state statutes, contracts (employment agreements), the U.S. Constitution and state constitutions, and common law torts such as defamation. Question: What is the “at-will” doctrine, and does it apply in the District of Columbia or Virginia? Answer: Virginia and the District of Columbia are at-will jurisdictions. This means that, in general, the company or the employee may terminate the employment relationship at any time, for any reason, with or without cause or notice. An employer may not, however, fire an employee where doing so would violate a statute, contract (employment agreement, company handbook or other enforceable promise), or public policy. If you have a question concerning the at-will doctrine or what constitutes a wrongful termination, contact Lori Searcy at 703-644-4122 or 202-393-1
