A framework comprised of seven distinct considerations is frequently employed in labor and employment law to ascertain whether an employer possessed sufficient justification for terminating an employee. This assessment evaluates the fairness and reasonableness of the employer’s decision-making process, ensuring adherence to principles of due process and equitable treatment. For instance, before a dismissal is considered valid, the employer may need to demonstrate that the employee was given clear notice of the expected standards of conduct and that the rules were consistently applied across the workforce.
The application of this framework serves to protect employees from arbitrary or discriminatory termination practices. It establishes a standard of accountability for employers, promoting a more stable and productive work environment. Historically, the development of these principles arose from collective bargaining agreements and legal precedents aimed at balancing the rights of employers to manage their workforce with the rights of employees to secure and maintain their employment. This balance helps mitigate the risk of wrongful termination lawsuits and fosters trust between employers and their employees.
