A Walgreens worker cited his religious beliefs as the reason he would not sell contraceptives to a couple. Walgreens has declared that its policy supports employees’ rights to exercise their faith in the workplace. Still, there are times when your company won’t stand by your decisions.

Your employer may terminate you for insubordination if you refuse to conform to the standards set by that employee. But even if you do a good job at your job, your employer may still decide to let you go.

At-will employment

Employment “at-will” means that either you or your employer can end the relationship at any moment, regardless of the circumstances. Most workplaces operate under an at-will policy, where employees can be hired and fired at will. Your employer has the right to fire you or get rid of your job as long as they don’t do anything illegal or unfair.

When does your job become mandatory?

It is necessary to carry out one’s duties as an elected official if they wish to avoid receiving criticism. The fact that Kim Davis, the clerk of Rowan County, Kentucky, would not issue marriage licenses to couples of the same sexual orientation made global news. Also, if you have an employment contract or a compensation agreement, you may have to do certain things and be bound by the agreement’s terms.

Choosing not to engage

If an employer asks you to do anything that might put you or others in harm’s way, is against the law, or is unethical, you have the right to refuse. You have no legal recourse if your boss assigns you more work. If you have reasonable cause to think that you or another person in your workplace poses an immediate threat of harm, you have the right to decline to do hazardous activity under OSHA regulations. To a reasonable individual, it would appear that life or limb is in danger. Thanks to whistleblower laws, you are safe to speak up. Employees are protected by these laws from wrongful termination, discrimination, and retaliation if an employer does any of these things.

Time to go for greener pastures

If you find that your present employment violates your ethical standards or is otherwise unsatisfying, your best option is to look for another job. You have the option to resign from your current job and look for work in a different industry or field. This decision is entirely up to you.

Talk to a lawyer who specializes in employment law if you think your employer is treating you unfairly or if you have any problems with the rules your employer has set up.