It may seem a straightforward question since people are dismissed every working day for what is commonly referred to as “gross misconduct”, i.e. conduct which is so serious that it goes to the root of the contract and renders its continuation undesirable if not impossible.
However, what of the “innocent” employee? In my discussion about decision of the Court of Appeal in Société Générale London Branch v Geys in April 2011 I pointed out that, according to the Court of Appeal, Mr Geys’ employment was terminated on 18 December 2007 when Société Générale made a payment in lieu of notice to him, rather than 4 January 2008 when Société Générale confirmed in writing its intention to do so. The date was very important for Mr Geys because, relying on the earlier date, Société Générale did not have to pay significant bonuses which would have accrued prior to the later termination date.
I commented: Continue reading
