The term "just cause" refers to a legitimate and lawful reason for taking a specific action. In legal contexts, it signifies that a party has a reasonable basis for their claims or actions. Essentially, "just cause" establishes a foundation that must be proven by the plaintiff, indicating that their actions are not arbitrary but grounded in valid legal reasoning.
Just cause is commonly used in various areas of law, including:
Users can manage certain legal actions related to just cause using legal templates available from US Legal Forms, which are drafted by qualified attorneys.
Here are a couple of examples of abatement:
Example 1: An employee is terminated after repeatedly violating company policy. The employer can argue that they had just cause for the termination based on documented infractions.
Example 2: A parent seeks to modify custody arrangements because the other parent has engaged in behavior that endangers the child's welfare. The parent must demonstrate just cause for the modification request. (hypothetical example)
Examples of state differences (not exhaustive):
| State | Just Cause Definition |
|---|---|
| California | Employers must show just cause for termination, based on documented performance issues. |
| New York | Employment is generally at-will, but just cause may apply in unionized settings. |
| Texas | Similar to New York, but with fewer protections against termination without just cause. |
This is not a complete list. State laws vary, and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.
If you believe just cause applies to your situation, consider the following steps:
For complex matters, seeking professional legal help is advisable.
Browse our library of 85,000+ state-specific legal templates.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Typical fees | Varies by case and jurisdiction |
| Jurisdiction | Applicable in civil, family, and criminal law contexts |
| Possible penalties | Varies based on the legal context |
Just cause is a legal term that refers to a legitimate reason for taking a specific action, often in employment or legal disputes.