Wrongful Termination in Maine
State-specific overview · Employment Law
Maine recognizes wrongful termination for public policy violations and implied contracts; whistleblower protections are particularly strong.
How Maine treats Wrongful Termination
Maine protects employees fired in violation of public policy, including retaliation for reporting safety violations, filing workers' compensation claims, or jury service. The state recognizes implied employment contracts based on employee handbooks, oral promises, and established practices. Maine's whistleblower statute (commonly referenced in wrongful termination cases) provides broad protection for employees reporting illegal activity to government agencies or internally. Employees may also claim breach of implied covenant of good faith and fair dealing in certain circumstances.
The general definition of Wrongful Termination
Illegal firing of an employee in violation of law, contract, or public policy.
Wrongful termination occurs when an employer fires an employee for an illegal reason or in violation of an employment contract or established public policy. Common illegal reasons include retaliation for reporting safety violations, discrimination based on race or gender, refusal to commit an illegal act, or exercising a legal right like jury duty. In most US states, employment is at-will, meaning employers can fire workers for almost any reason, but there are important exceptions. An employee who is wrongfully terminated can sue for damages, including lost wages and emotional distress.
Read the full Wrongful Termination entry →This page is a plain-English reference and is not legal advice. State laws change frequently. For specific situations consult a licensed attorney in Maine.