[MI] [MI] Can I be fired if I have an employment contract?
My job fired me for misconduct, but didn’t tell me what it was.
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In Michigan, even with an employment contract, you have rights—and your employer’s vague claim of “misconduct” without explanation raises some red flags. Here’s how to break it down:
Review Your Employment Contract:
If your contract specifies that you can only be terminated “for cause,” the employer must typically:
- Identify the alleged misconduct,
- Show that it violated a clear policy or standard,
- And, in many cases, provide an opportunity to respond or correct the behavior.
Firing you without explanation could be a breach of contract, especially if the agreement outlines a disciplinary process or notice requirement. (Toussaint v. Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Michigan, 408 Mich 579 (1980))
Request a Written Explanation:
You have every right to ask for a written statement of the reason for your termination. This should be directed to management or HR. This can help clarify whether the employer is claiming:
- Misconduct (which could affect unemployment benefits),
- Or simply exercising at-will termination (if your contract allows it).
Unemployment Benefits:
In Michigan, if you apply for unemployment and the employer claims “misconduct,” they must prove it. Misconduct must involve willful or grossly negligent behavior—not just poor performance or a misunderstanding. If they can’t back it up, you may still qualify for benefits.
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My job fired me for misconduct, but didn’t tell me what it was.
Lexi, Chatbot
I'm sorry to hear about your situation. Can you tell me if you were given any warnings or written documentation regarding the alleged misconduct before being terminated?
I was not.
Lexi, Chatbot
Were there any specific company policies or procedures that you believe may have been violated leading to your termination?
Not that I’m aware of.
Lexi, Chatbot
Is there anything else the employment lawyer should know before I connect you? Rest assured they'll be able to help with your termination issue.
No
Lori
Hey there! Welcome! I'm Lori, an attorney with many years of experience, and I'm here to help you. I am on live with you today.
- What city/state is the employer located in?
- Do you have an employment contract with the employer?
The address for the business is Burton, Michigan. Although it’s headquartered somewhere else. Yes, I had a manager's contract.
Lori
Thanks for the info. Does the contract have provisions on termination and grounds that the employer has to follow? Have you appealed the termination decision to a supervisor or HR?
I would assume yes the contract does state these things. Although I’m not sure of the details of my employment contract, I was a manager. I haven’t appealed or done anything.
They just brought me into the office two hours ago and said we did an investigation and found misconduct, and we’re not going to tell you what it is. You’re fired.
Lori
Understood. Thanks for the information. Please give me some time to review/do some research and to draft my personalized response. I will get back to you as soon as possible.
Okay, should I wait here online?
I will posted it shortly.
Lori
Okay I’ll wait right here.
Lori
In Michigan, even with an employment contract, you have rights—and your employer’s vague claim of “misconduct” without explanation raises some red flags. Here’s how to break it down:
Review Your Employment Contract:
If your contract specifies that you can only be terminated “for cause,” the employer must typically:
- Identify the alleged misconduct,
- Show that it violated a clear policy or standard,
- And, in many cases, provide an opportunity to respond or correct the behavior.
Firing you without explanation could be a breach of contract, especially if the agreement outlines a disciplinary process or notice requirement. (Toussaint v. Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Michigan, 408 Mich 579 (1980))
Request a Written Explanation:
You have every right to ask for a written statement of the reason for your termination. This should be directed to management or HR. This can help clarify whether the employer is claiming:
- Misconduct (which could affect unemployment benefits),
- Or simply exercising at-will termination (if your contract allows it).
Unemployment Benefits:
In Michigan, if you apply for unemployment and the employer claims “misconduct,” they must prove it. Misconduct must involve willful or grossly negligent behavior—not just poor performance or a misunderstanding. If they can’t back it up, you may still qualify for benefits.
Okay, I will do. Thanks.
Lori
You are welcome. Thank you for allowing me to assist you today. Have a nice day!
For further questions will I be able to follow up with you?
Lori
Sure. Just a post a new question in the future.
Lori
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