Can an Employer Terminate You for No Reason?

• Mar 31, 2026
• Blog
• Michael Burgis & Associates, P.C

Being fired without a reason can feel confusing. In California, employers don’t always have to explain a termination, but that doesn’t mean the reason is lawful. If the story keeps changing or they refuse to explain, it could signal something deeper, like discrimination or retaliation.

Don’t ignore the red flags. You may have more rights than you realize. Contact our team today for a free consultation and let’s uncover the truth behind your termination.

Transcript: 

You’ve been terminated. They didn’t even give you a reason. Can they do that? Let’s talk.

Hi, my name is Shant Kotchounian, co-founder of California Employment Trial Lawyers, a Burgis and Kotchounian Firm. We’re trial lawyers. We’re employment lawyers. We deal with issues like this day in and day out. We’re here for you.

At-Will Employment & Termination

In at-will states like California, an employer doesn’t need to give you a reason for the termination, but no reason given does not mean that no reason exists.

Ask for Reason in Writing

The shady employers just won’t want to admit it. So it’s up to you to ask for the reason in writing. If they refuse, it’s telling you something.

Employer Changes Explanation for Termination

I want you to keep an eye out for shifting explanations. If they say, “It’s performance based, scratch that, it’s insubordination. No, actually, you know what? We’re dealing with budget cuts.” That is a red flag.

So, remember, no reason could be legal. But it often means that they’re hiding the real reason and that real reason might be illegal.

Contact Us If You Were Terminated Without a Reason

So, look, if you suspect that silence is covering something up, you might be right. Give us a call. Let’s talk through it. Let us help you uncover the potential real reason for the termination, illegal reason, discriminatory reason, retaliatory reason. We are here for you. We welcome your phone call. Thank you.