Navigating the legal intricacies of employment relationships can be complex, especially when it comes to the expiration and non-renewal of employment contracts. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the legal concept of Tameny claims and examine how the courts have addressed public policy tort claims based on an employer’s refusal to renew an employment contract after its expiration.
Tameny Claims and Wrongful Termination:
1. Tameny v. Atlantic Richfield Co. (1980)
Tameny claims originate from the landmark California case Tameny v. Atlantic Richfield Co. This decision established that employees may have a cause of action for wrongful termination in violation of public policy when their employment is terminated for reasons that contravene fundamental public policy.
2. Public Policy as Basis for Tameny Claims
Tameny claims typically arise when an employer’s actions violate public policy principles. Courts have generally not allowed a public policy tort claim based upon the employer’s refusal to renew an employment contract after its expiration.
Tameny Claims and Non-Renewal of Contracts:
1. Daly v. Exxon Corp. (1997)
In the case of Daly v. Exxon Corp., the court held that a public policy tort claim, under Tameny, cannot be sustained based solely on an employer’s decision not to renew an employment contract after its expiration. The court emphasized the importance of distinguishing between termination decisions and the expiration of fixed-term contracts.
2. Touchstone Television Productions v. Sup.Ct. (Sheridan) (2012)
Touchstone Television Productions reinforced the notion that a cause of action for wrongful termination in violation of public policy is not applicable when an employer chooses not to exercise an option to renew a contract. The court highlighted the contractual nature of employment agreements and the limited scope of Tameny claims in the context of contract non-renewals.
3. DeCambre v. Rady Children’s Hosp.– San Diego (2015)
DeCambre v. Rady Children’s Hospital further emphasized the courts’ stance, stating that a wrongful termination claim could not proceed when the decision not to renew a doctor’s contract was rooted in protected medical peer review proceedings covered by the anti-SLAPP statute.
Summarizing the Issue
While Tameny claims have been instrumental in protecting employees from wrongful termination, the courts have established clear boundaries when it comes to non-renewal of employment contracts. Understanding the contractual nature of employment relationships and the legal perspectives on contract non-renewals is vital for employees seeking to navigate the complexities of wrongful termination claims in the context of fixed-term agreements.
With offices in Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, and San Bernardino, Akopyan Law Firm, A.P.C. serves clients across Southern California. Our testimonials and case results speak to our experience and determination to uphold the law. If you are involved in a dispute involving the termination or non-renewal of a contract, our experienced employment lawyers stand ready to help. Visit us to learn more about wrongful termination cases. Let our experienced lawyers guide you through complex employment issues.