New Jersey is an “at will” employment state. This means that unless you are subject to an employment contract, you may be terminated for any reason.
However, it is important to understand that if you are injured while in the course of your employment, you may be entitled to file a Workers’ Compensation claim to ensure that you receive proper medical treatment and compensation for your work-related injuries. It is equally important to recognize that your employer cannot retaliate against you for exercising your legal right to file a Workers’ Compensation claim and that the law protects injured employees from being discharged from their employment in retaliation for filing a claim.
There are instances, however, when an employer may terminate an employee that has filed a Workers’ Compensation claim. For example, if the employee fails to report to work after a light duty accommodation has been made.
If you are injured at work, it is imperative that you know your rights and how to protect your job.