No legal requirements: Companies aren't required to give references about their past employees. References developed as a tradition that companies would give, almost as a benefit, to their ex-employees.
Can my employer refuse me a reference?
There is no legal obligation to provide a reference except in a few sectors, such as financial services, but any reference that is provided must be true, accurate and fair. Your employer owes a duty both to you and any prospective employer.
Is an employer legally obliged to provide a reference?
Your employer doesn't usually have to give you a reference unless: your contract says they will. you have written proof they've agreed to give you a reference - like an email.
Can I refuse to provide reference?
There is no legal obligation for an employer to provide a reference letter, of any kind. However, if a court finds that an employer's refusal to provide a reference amounted to “bad faith” conduct which caused the employee harm, this may entitle the employee to aggravated or punitive damages.
