Wrongful Termination Grounds

Summary

In virginia, theft of any item, regardless of its value, can be grounds for termination. However, if the item was officially discarded and you were fired for taking it, you might have grounds for a wrongful termination suit. Consult with an employment attorney for advice.

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i got fired from my job and I want to know if I have grounds for a wrongful termination case
What was the reason given for your termination, ****?
i stole something
What state are you located in, ****? Laws regarding theft and employment termination can vary by location.
va
In Virginia, employers have the right to terminate employees for theft. However, did you receive any formal warnings before termination?
no
In Virginia:

- Employers can terminate employees for theft without prior warning.
- It's called "at-will" employment.

For more details, contact Virginia Employment Commission: (*) *-*.
but what I stole had no value and was getting ready to be thrown out
What was the item you stole and why did you believe it was of no value and about to be discarded? In Virginia, theft is still considered a crime, regardless of the item's value.
a sandwich that was expired
In Virginia, theft of any item, regardless of its value, can be grounds for termination. For more details, contact Virginia Employment Commission: (*) *-*.
but I was told by the person who trained me that it was okay
Did you have any written or recorded proof that your trainer told you it was okay to take the expired sandwich?
no
In Virginia:

- Verbal agreements can be hard to prove without evidence.
- Always ensure to have written permission for such actions.

For more details, contact Virginia Employment Commission: (*) *-*.
The sandwich had already been “thrown out” how is it theft if it’s no longer their property
Did your employer officially discard the sandwich, and was it in a designated area for discarded items when you took it?

In Virginia:
- Even discarded items can be considered property if not officially released.
- Always clarify with management before taking discarded items.
it had been officially released
In Virginia:

- If an item has been officially discarded, it may not be considered theft.
- However, the employer's policies may still apply.

Contact Virginia Employment Commission: (*) *-* for more details.
Could I have grounds for a wrongful termination suit
In Virginia, if an item was officially discarded and you were fired for taking it, you might have grounds for a wrongful termination suit. Consult with an employment attorney for advice.