Carter v. Division of Employment Security

# Carter v. Division of Employment Security **What Happened** Carter lost her job with RSW Admin, LP when she relocated to follow her husband's mandatory military transfer orders. The company's employment agency denied her unemployment benefits, claiming she had voluntarily quit her position. **What the Court Decided** The court ruled in Carter's favor, reversing the agency's decision. The judge determined that Carter did not voluntarily leave her job. Because her husband's military orders were mandatory—not a choice she made—the court found she had a legitimate reason for the move. The case was sent back for the agency to award her unemployment benefits. **Why This Matters for Workers** This ruling protects workers who must leave jobs due to circumstances beyond their control, particularly military spouses. It establishes that being forced to relocate because of a spouse's mandatory military assignment is not considered "quitting." Workers in similar situations can potentially qualify for unemployment benefits, providing financial support during job transitions caused by military moves.