Wieder v. Skala

80 N.Y.2d 628 (1992)

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Wieder v. Skala

New York Court of Appeals
80 N.Y.2d 628 (1992)

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Facts

Howard Wieder (plaintiff) was an associate with Skala (defendant), a law firm. Wieder asked Skala to represent him in the purchase of a condominium, and the firm assigned another associate, LL, to the task. LL neglected Wieder’s transaction and tried to cover up his inattention to the matter by lying to Wieder about it. Wieder complained to Skala’s partners, and they acknowledged that LL was “a pathological liar.” Wieder implored the partners to report LL to the bar’s disciplinary authorities, which they eventually did, albeit reluctantly. The partners also fired Wieder. Wieder sued Skala for breach of contract and for the tort of wrongful discharge. The trial court dismissed both causes of action because Wieder was an at-will employee. The appellate court affirmed, and Wieder appealed again.

Rule of Law

Issue

Holding and Reasoning (Hancock, J.)

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