Wrongful Termination in New Jersey
State-specific overview · Employment Law
New Jersey recognizes wrongful termination for public policy violations and implies a good-faith covenant in all employment relationships.
How New Jersey treats Wrongful Termination
New Jersey courts have established broad wrongful termination protections, recognizing claims when firing violates public policy, including whistleblowing, jury duty, and refusing illegal conduct. The state implies a covenant of good faith and fair dealing in all employment relationships, even at-will positions. New Jersey also protects employees exercising statutory rights like family leave and workers' compensation claims. Damages may include lost wages, benefits, emotional distress, and in some cases punitive damages.
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 New Jersey.