Re: termination

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On 7/04/07, Marsha wrote:
> I was recently fired from a Deputy Clerk position, while
> in my probationary period. After receiving a warning and a
> 2 week evaluation period I was given a letter by the
> evaluator stating I was going to be recommended for
> dismissal and the matter would come before the Town
> Council at the next opportunity. An emergency meeting was
> called for the next day, without my knowledge, and I was
> fired but given 2 weeks severance pay. I’ve heard
> conflicting information that this was not reasonable
> notice or that the severance pay could be given in lieu of
> reasonable notice. Can you provide me more information and
> any case law you may know of in support or against my
> cause…Thank you!

There is none. Unless you had a bonafide employment
contract or CBA to the contrary, you were an employee "at
will" which means you could be terminated at any time for
any lawful reason. While there could be some policies or
statutes specific to your municipality that apply, from an
employment law perspective nothing illegal has occurred. No
laws require employers to give employees advance notice of
termination or to provide any severance pay. Since since
you were still in your probationary period, I'd guess you
are exempt from any customary formal process regarding
termination that more senior employees in your municipality
may be guaranteed.