Missouri follows the legal doctrine of “at-will employment.” This means that, in most circumstances, an employer can terminate an employee for any reason not prohibited by law, and likewise, an employee can leave a job for any reason, at any time, without notice. For example, an employer could dismiss an employee because of personality conflicts, or an employee could resign to pursue a better opportunity, both without legal repercussions in a typical situation. There are exceptions, such as if a contract dictates specific terms of employment or if the termination is based on illegal discrimination.
This doctrine provides flexibility for both employers and employees in navigating the labor market. Businesses can adjust their workforce based on economic conditions or performance needs, while individuals have the autonomy to seek employment best suited to their goals. Historically, this doctrine emerged as the dominant employment model in the United States, reflecting a shift away from more formalized, long-term employment arrangements. It is important to note that certain federal and state laws limit this doctrine to protect employees from wrongful termination based on factors like race, religion, gender, age, or disability. Additionally, public policy exceptions exist to prevent dismissals that violate clear mandates of public policy, such as firing an employee for refusing to engage in illegal activities.
