Termination Without a Reason: Why Lawyers Love It, and How Smart Employers Protect Themselves

Many business owners believe “at-will employment” means that when firing someone, not giving a reason is more protective than giving one. In this episode, Paul Edwards and Jennie (Director of Compliance at CEDR HR Solutions and former employment attorney) dismantle that myth and explain why “no reason given” can be one of the fastest ways to invite legal trouble.

They break down real-world termination mistakes, why vague or abrupt firings often push employees straight to a lawyer, and how even legitimate issues (like tardiness or performance) can start to look like discrimination when you don’t communicate clearly. You’ll also hear why coaching and documentation matter, and how to keep termination conversations respectful, brief, and defensible. You’ll learn:

• Why your at-will status alone isn’t a legal shield
• How “no reason” can support create discrimination claims after the fact
• What lawyers looking to sure hate to find in the employee's record
• How to run a clear, respectful, defensible termination meeting

Have an HR situation you want Paul to unpack on the show? Record a voice memo and send it to podcast@WTHJustHappened.com. Learn more at WTHJustHappened.com.

CEDR HR Solutions is here to help when your HR issues leave you thinking, “What the hell just happened?!”

Learn more here: CEDR HR Solutions

Or give them a call (866) 414-6056