Human Resources Certification Institute (HRCI) Practice Exam

In the absence of an employment contract, under which condition might an employee expect to only be terminated for cause?

1. If they are a protected class individual

2. If there is a progressive discipline policy in the handbook

3. If their behavior was first investigated by management

4. None of the above

The correct answer is: None of the above

In the absence of an employment contract, an employee can generally be terminated at-will, meaning the employer can terminate the employee for any reason that is not illegal. Options A, B, and C suggest specific conditions under which an employee might expect to only be terminated for cause. However, unless there is a specific employment contract or policy in place stating otherwise, the default assumption is that employment is at-will, and the employer can terminate the employee for any reason, without cause. Therefore, option D, stating "None of the above," is the correct choice in this scenario.