What does "unlawful termination" mean under Ohio employment law?

"Unlawful termination" under Ohio employment law specifically refers to the termination of an employee for illegal reasons, such as discrimination based on race, gender, age, religion, or other protected characteristics. Ohio law prohibits employers from firing employees for reasons that violate federal or state anti-discrimination laws. This means that if an employee is terminated because of their membership in a protected class or for exercising their rights, such as filing a workers' compensation claim or reporting illegal workplace practices, this constitutes unlawful termination.

Terminations due to company downsizing, performance-related issues, or resignation due to unsafe working conditions do not typically fall under the category of unlawful termination. Downsizing is generally a legitimate business decision, performance-related terminations relate to the employee's work conduct or output, and resigning due to unsafe conditions is not a termination by the employer but rather a voluntary departure by the employee. Therefore, the essence of unlawful termination is tied closely to actions that defy legal protections, making the correct understanding crucial for workers and employers alike.