What does pre-textual termination mean?

Pre-textual termination refers to the practice of concealing the true reason behind an employee's dismissal. In this context, an employer may present a false or misleading rationale for terminating an employee while the actual motivation is based on discriminatory factors or retaliation against the employee. This kind of termination raises legal issues, especially in cases involving protected classes under employment law, where the real reason for termination would be unlawful.

The focus of pre-textual termination is on the employer's intent to create a façade that hides the discriminatory or retaliatory motives, which can lead to claims of wrongful termination. By understanding this concept, individuals can better recognize situations where they might be able to identify and challenge unjust or disguised employment practices.