Immediate termination in Switzerland – What is allowed, what is not?

A summary dismissal can be shocking – for both sides. It is only permitted in exceptional cases. Here you will learn when a summary dismissal is permissible and what rights you have as an employee or employer.

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1. Legal Basis (Art. 337 CO)

The dismissal must be based on an important reason that makes the continuation of the employment relationship unreasonable.

2. Permissible Reasons for Summary Dismissal

  • Criminal offences (e.g. theft)

  • Gross breaches of duty

  • Refusal to work despite warning

  • Violence, threats

  • Fraud or serious breaches of trust

3. Form and Deadline

The dismissal must be issued immediately after the incident and justified in writing (Art. 337c CO).

4. Consequences of Unlawful Dismissal

Employees are entitled to compensation for damages (salary until the regular end of contract) and up to 6 months' salary as compensation (§ Art. 337c Para. 3 CO).

5. Immediate Measures for Dismissed Employees

  • Have the dismissal reviewed

  • Claim continued salary payment

  • Secure documentation

  • Get legally sound answers immediately with Jurilo

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Verified answers with citations

Core workflows for everyday questions

Fast onboarding

No pressure. One short call to see if Jurilo fits your workflows. Join Swiss teams who've made legal work simpler.

Ready to make legal work Faster & Safer?

Verified answers with citations

Core workflows for everyday questions

Fast onboarding

No pressure. One short call to see if Jurilo fits your workflows. Join Swiss teams who've made legal work simpler.