Wrongful Termination in Massachusetts
State-specific overview · Employment Law
Massachusetts recognizes wrongful termination when firing violates public policy, statute, or implied contract terms.
How Massachusetts treats Wrongful Termination
Massachusetts courts protect employees fired for jury duty, military service, or reporting safety violations. The state recognizes an implied covenant of good faith and fair dealing in employment contracts, even at-will arrangements. Employees may sue for breach of contract, tort, or violation of public policy. Damages can include back pay, front pay, and emotional distress in some cases.
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 Massachusetts.