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At-Will Employment Doesn’t Mean No Protections

July 8, 2025

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Emery Reddy

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Many Washington workers believe they can be fired for any reason — but that’s only partially true. At-will employment has exceptions.

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What Is an At-will Employment State?

Washington state is an at-will employment state. At-will employment means that employers do not need to establish cause or give notice before firing an employee. 

At-will Exceptions

Termination based on any of the following are illegal:
• Discrimination
• Retaliation
• Filing an L&I claim
• Taking medical leave
• Whistleblowing

You may also have a claim even if no reason was given for your termination.

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