When calling a potential employee's former employer what questions should you ask?

Question

Can you ask what their reason for leaving was?

Answer 1

legally all you can do is verify what dates they worked there.

Answer 2

The law is specific about what you can ask such as dates of employment and reason for departure. If the Source you call wants to " add" something this is a good opportunity to get their opinion without asking the illegal questions such as age. marital status, ability, reliability etc.