Wrongful Termination in Michigan
Michigan is generally an at-will state, but some firings are illegal. Here are the exceptions, retaliation protections and where to file.
Short answer: Employers may not fire, threaten or otherwise punish an employee who reports, or is about to report, a suspected violation of law to a public body, or who is asked to take part in a public body's investigation or a court action. MCL 15.362; MCL 15.363 (Whistleblowers' Protection Act)
| Whistleblower and retaliation protection | Employers may not fire, threaten or otherwise punish an employee who reports, or is about to report, a suspected violation of law to a public body, or who is asked to take part in a public body's investigation or a court action. A lawsuit must be filed within 90 days of the violation. Deadline: https://www.legislature.mi.gov/Laws/MCL?objectName=mcl-15-363 |
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| Job discrimination complaints | Michigan Department of Civil Rights. The Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act covers employers with 1 or more employees. Source: MCL 37.2201 |
Where to get help in Michigan
- Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity, Wage and Hour Division
- File a complaint or claim
More Michigan employment law
- Minimum Wage in Michigan
- Final Paycheck Laws in Michigan
- Paid Sick Leave in Michigan
- Non-Compete Agreements in Michigan
- All Michigan employment law rules
FAQ
Is it illegal to fire someone for reporting a violation in Michigan?
Employers may not fire, threaten or otherwise punish an employee who reports, or is about to report, a suspected violation of law to a public body, or who is asked to take part in a public body's investigation or a court action. A lawsuit must be filed within 90 days of the violation.
Where do I file a job discrimination complaint in Michigan?
Michigan Department of Civil Rights. The Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act covers employers with 1 or more employees.
General legal information, not legal advice. Laws change and local rules can differ; check the linked official source or talk to a lawyer about your situation.