Understanding Severance Agreements

Some companies offer what is known as a, “Severance Agreement” as part of their employment termination package. If you suspect there is a brewing case against the employer for unpaid wages, commissions, bonuses, or your job termination was due to a protected characteristic such as age, disability, FMLA, or pregnancy it is best to consult an experienced employee lawyer to find out if bringing a lawsuit is appropriate. It is also possible severance is being offered to an employee who engaged in whistleblowing by complaining about unlawful conduct in the workplace. Finally, if a victim of sexual harassment is being asked to leave because the company does not want to transfer or fire the sexual harasser severance is generally not the way to go, a lawsuit is the answer. Call (714) 210-8000 to find out whether a real employment lawyer (not a secretary) thinks you should forget about the severance and sue your employer.

Before agreeing to a severance package, it is wise to review the terms with an employment lawyer to ensure that you are being offered a reasonable package. Severance pay is often offered because the employee has what would be a good employment lawsuit. In those situations accepting a severance payment is not wise. A few weeks or months pay is not acceptable compensation if you were defrauded into accepting employment, or you are being fired because you are a whistle blower. Likewise, victims of sexual harassment who are being forced out because they have complained of sexual harassment or rejected the advances of a supervisor should not sign their rights away for little compensation in a severance agreement. Only experienced employment lawyers like Karl Gerber, who has handled more than 2,000 employment cases, can properly advise you what your potential job claims might be worth. 

Consult with an Orange County Severance Agreement Attorney

The Employment Lawyers Group can provide the counsel and representation you’re looking for. Attorney Karl Gerber has been selected for inclusion in California Super Lawyers® many years since 2010, proving our firm’s commitment to excellence and success. Contact our offices now (714) 210-8000 for a consultation to learn how we could assist you with your severance agreement situation.