If you are a public sector employee, (i.e., you work for the government) there are a number of civil service laws that may protect you from being fired.

First of all, you generally cannot be fired for your political beliefs, membership in particular clubs, associations, or unions.

Secondly, your freedom of speech is protected; you generally cannot be fired for speaking in public on any issue, writing a letter to a newspaper, or similar action.

Finally, a public sector employee is usually protected by "due process". An employer must give an employee notice of the reason for being discharged, the opportunity of a hearing to contest the discharge, with a decision rendered by an impartial third party decision-maker.

(Reviewed 9-08)