Definition
A legal standard requiring employers to have a fair and reasonable basis for disciplinary action or termination, typically in union environments. Seven specific tests that prevent 'because I felt like it' terminations.
Example Usage
The union grievance challenged whether the company had just cause for the termination, arguing that progressive discipline steps were skipped.
Origin
Developed through labor arbitration cases in the 1960s, codified in the 'Seven Tests of Just Cause'
Fun Fact
The seven tests include adequate warning, reasonable rules, thorough investigation, fair proof, equal treatment, appropriate penalty, and proper documentation—standards most at-will employers completely ignore.
Source: Labor relations and arbitration case law
Related Terms
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See “just cause” in Corporate Speak, Gen-Z Slang, Pirate Speak, and more.
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