Can I Lose My Job Over a Drug Charge

[cyb3rd0rk]

In the end of may 2008 I was busted w/ 4oz of marijuana at my house. This is my first time possession and it happened in IOWA. From what I understand this will be a misdemeanor w/ up to a $1000 fine correct? Now after court dates and stuff, can I legally be fired from my job? Or will they have to do drug tests to fire me? I work at a Factory and am 20 years old.

Thanks in advance!

[ashman165]

In the end of may 2008 I was busted w/ 4oz of marijuana at my house. This is my first time possession and it happened in IOWA. From what I understand this will be a misdemeanor w/ up to a $1000 fine correct? Now after court dates and stuff, can I legally be fired from my job? Or will they have to do drug tests to fire me? I work at a Factory and am 20 years old.

Thanks in advance!

That depends on what type of employee you're classified as.

If you're an "at-will" employee, they can fire you no reason, or any reason (so long as it's not discrimination of a protected class for being a memer of that protected class; e.g., a minority, or handicapped person.

If you have an employment contract of some kind, then the acceptable reasons for termination will be in there somewhere. It's not uncommon for contracts to include convictions of drug charges to be a reason.

Are you in a union?

[cyb3rd0rk]

No I am not part of a union. And if by "at-will" you mean like hired through a temp agency? I am not that either.

[ashman165]

No I am not part of a union. And if by "at-will" you mean like hired through a temp agency? I am not that either.

No, that would be a temp job. =P

I mean at-will as in either you or the company can terminate your employee for any reason, or no reason.

You didn't say if you have an employment contract at all, so I'll assume you don't.

This makes you an at will employee.

[gigirle]

Here in the buckeye state, they don't need a reason (see the above at-will) ...but if they find out, you just gave them one.

[cyb3rd0rk]

I believe i have some sort of contract. Im in the process of looking it up You've been a great help! Might be back w/ some more questions! Thanks again!