[MI] Can my employer fire me for misconduct without telling me what it was?
In Michigan, even with an employment contract, you have rights — and your employer’s vague claim of “misconduct” without explanation raises red flags.
- Review Your Employment Contract: If your contract says you can only be terminated “for cause,” the employer must usually identify the misconduct, show policy violation, and sometimes give you a chance to respond. Firing you without explanation could breach the contract.
- Request a Written Explanation: Ask HR or management for a written reason for your termination — this clarifies if it’s “misconduct” or at-will termination (Bullard-Plawecki Employee Right-to-Know Act).
- Unemployment Benefits: If you apply for unemployment, the employer must prove misconduct (MCL 421.29(1)(b)). Unless it’s willful or grossly negligent behavior, you may still qualify for benefits.
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My job fired me for misconduct, but didn’t tell me what it was.
I’m sorry to hear about your situation. Were you given any warnings or written documentation regarding the alleged misconduct before being terminated?
I was not.
Were there any specific company policies or procedures that you believe may have been violated leading to your termination?
Not that I’m aware of.
Is there anything else the employment lawyer should know before I connect you?
Yes.
Hey there! Welcome! I'm Lori, an attorney with many years of experience, and I'm here to help you. I’m on live with you today. What city/state is the employer located in? Do you have an employment contract with the employer?
The address for the business is Burton, Michigan. Although it’s headquartered somewhere else. Yes, I had a manager’s contract.
Thanks. Does the contract have provisions on termination and grounds that the employer has to follow? Have you appealed the termination decision to a supervisor or HR?
I would assume yes, the contract does state these things. Although I’m not sure of the details, I was a manager. I haven’t appealed or done anything. They just brought me into the office two hours ago and said they did an investigation, found misconduct, and wouldn’t tell me what it is. I was fired.
In Michigan, even with an employment contract, you have rights — and your employer’s vague claim of “misconduct” without explanation raises red flags.
- Review Your Employment Contract: If your contract says you can only be terminated “for cause,” the employer must usually identify the misconduct, show policy violation, and sometimes give you a chance to respond. Firing you without explanation could breach the contract.
- Request a Written Explanation: Ask HR or management for a written reason for your termination — this clarifies if it’s “misconduct” or at-will termination (Bullard-Plawecki Employee Right-to-Know Act).
- Unemployment Benefits: If you apply for unemployment, the employer must prove misconduct (MCL 421.29(1)(b)). Unless it’s willful or grossly negligent behavior, you may still qualify for benefits.
Okay, I will do. Thanks.
You’re welcome. Thank you for allowing me to assist you today. Have a nice day!
For further questions, will I be able to follow up with you?
Sure — just post a new question in the future.
