Which statement best defines a wrongful discharge claim?

• A. A claim that the termination violated company policy
• B. A claim that the employee was terminated for whistleblowing
• C. A claim that the termination violated public policy
• D. A claim that the termination violated antidiscrimination laws

Answer: (D)

Wrongful discharge claims arise when a termination is driven by illegal or forbidden motives. The most widespread and broad form is when the firing violates antidiscrimination laws, which protect employees from being fired because of protected characteristics like race, sex, age, disability, or religion. Because these statutes cover a wide range of protected groups and activities, terminating someone for one of these reasons is a clear and common basis for a wrongful discharge claim.

Other options describe related but narrower scenarios. Termination for violating company policy often points to internal policy or contract issues rather than a legal violation. Firing someone for whistleblowing is a specific type of illegal retaliation protected by law, but it’s just one particular illegal motive among many. Termination that violates public policy is a recognized basis in some jurisdictions, but antidiscrimination protections generally provide a broader and more universally applicable standard for wrongful discharge.