Can you be fired without good reason?

Questioner

I've had a permanent contract with my current employer for seven years. Now, during my year-end review, I've been told (completely surprising me) that if I don't improve, my contract will be terminated on December 31, 2014. That is not allowed, and is this valid? one more year to prove myself and otherwise it's over.

Lawyer

No, the employer cannot simply terminate the contract. They must have a valid reason for doing so, and they must request permission from the Employee Insurance Agency (UWV) or the court. You will then have the opportunity to respond to that request and tell your side of the story.

Lawyer

In addition to the above, I note that an employer is allowed to indicate – with substantiated reasons – that someone is not performing, but a proper improvement process must be initiated to address this. Letting you "muddle through" until the end of the year and then firing you is not acceptable. I'm happy to help you with this if you'd like. Feel free to contact me directly without obligation.