Like most states, Michigan is an at-will employment state, which means that an employer can typically fire an employee at any time for any legal reason or no reason at all. However, you can’t legally fire an employee:
For a discriminatory reason, such as their race, religion, or sex;
Because they have used benefits to which they are legally entitled to, such as Family Medical Leave or Workers’ Compensation, or are soon going to collect such benefits;
For a retaliatory reason, such as their filing a harassment complaint; or
In violation of the terms of an employment contract.
If you are concerned about firing an employee an attorney for employers can help you navigate the process and advise you about how to move forward and limit monetary exposure.