As a Florida employer, you need clear guidelines for firing employees immediately. Some workplace issues call for quick action, while others need a step-by-step approach. Knowing when to fire someone immediately helps you protect your business and stay within the law.
What makes immediate firing legal?
Florida follows “at-will” employment rules, which let employers fire workers at any time. Still, you need solid reasons for instant termination. Here are the leading causes that support immediate firing:
- Physical fights or threats at work
- Stealing money or supplies
- Serious harassment cases
- Breaking major safety rules
- Sharing private company information
- Working drunk or high
- Lying on company papers
- Destroying work properly
Steps to take before firing someone
Before you tell someone to leave:
- Get proof of what happened.
- Check your company rules.
- Look at past firing decisions.
- Make sure it’s not discrimination.
- Write down everything.
- Talk to HR first.
Quick action matters, but you still need facts. Talk to people who saw what happened. Keep all emails, photos or videos about the incident. Write down dates and details while they’re fresh.
Florida law backs your right to fire people who break severe rules. However, federal laws still protect workers from unfair treatment. You must show your firing decision isn’t based on age, race, gender or other protected group status.
Every firing carries some risk, even when it seems simple. A quick call to an employment lawyer can save you from more significant problems later. They’ll help ensure your quick decision doesn’t lead to a long legal battle.
