What is a key characteristic of employment at will?

A key characteristic of employment at-will is that it allows either the employer or the employee to terminate the employment relationship for any lawful reason, or even for no reason at all, without the need for advance notice or justification. This principle is fundamental to employment at will, providing flexibility for both parties in the employment relationship.

In contrast, requiring contracts to specify duration involves agreements that create a defined term of employment, which contradicts the at-will nature that allows termination at any time without cause. The idea of mandating severance pay upon termination pertains to specific contractual arrangements or company policies and is not inherent to the at-will doctrine. Additionally, guaranteed employment security is contrary to the essence of at-will employment, as it implies job security that at-will employment does not afford. Therefore, the ability to terminate employment for any lawful reason encapsulates the essence of employment at will perfectly.