In Nevada, the default employment relationship is governed by the “at-will” doctrine. This means that an employer can generally terminate an employee for any reason, or no reason at all, as long as the reason isn’t discriminatory or otherwise illegal. Similarly, an employee can leave a job for any reason, without notice. A common example is an employee being dismissed due to a change in business needs, even if their performance has been satisfactory.
This doctrine offers flexibility for both employers and employees. Businesses can adapt quickly to changing market conditions, while individuals retain the freedom to pursue better opportunities. Historically, this doctrine has been the norm in the United States, promoting economic dynamism. However, it’s important to note that certain exceptions exist, such as implied contracts, public policy violations, and covenant of good faith and fair dealing, which can offer employees protection against wrongful termination.
