Severance is a business decision. Unless your employer has a severance policy and your departure falls within the terms of the policy, you are not entitled to severance. For employees being offered severance, the document should be reviewed prior to your signing the agreement. Peruse the questions below and contact Sheree Donath at 516-804-0274 or at sheree@donathlaw.com to discuss the answers and to find information specific to your situation.
Keep in mind that these are just a sampling of the questions to be considered:
Should the severance agreement reference a termination date, state a resignation date or say you are entering into this agreement based on mutual agreement? Are there consequences to it saying one or the other?
How long do you have to sign the agreement? Can you revoke your signature once you sign?
Were you part of a layoff or are you the only person being let go right now?
Why were you the person selected for termination?
Are you entitled to unemployment benefits?
What legal terms are commonly found in the severance agreement?
Are you entitled to continued health coverage/ COBRA and if so, will the company pay for this?
Are you entitled to a bonus or a pro-rata bonus?
What happens to your equity?
Are you entitled to earned and accrued commissions? How are commissions calculated and paid out?
Why is there a non-disparagement clause in the agreement and why isn’t it mutual?
Why is there a release of claims in the agreement and why isn’t it mutual?
What kind of cooperation am I required to provide?
Am I still bound by my non-compete/ non-solicitation agreement?
When will I receive payments under this agreement?
Is the agreement mitigated and under what circumstances? Should I be comfortable with the agreement having a mitigation clause?
Can the agreement be negotiated?
Does the agreement require you to notify your former employer of impending or new employment opportunities?
The above are just a few examples of the many items considered prior to executing a severance agreement. Severance agreements should be reviewed by an attorney knowledgeable in this area of the law. It is a binding contract and contains restrictions on you once signed. It also may incorporate previous agreements that have been signed.
It is important to understand the document you are about to sign, have it reviewed and determine if there is an opportunity to enhance the offer you have received.
For more information or assistance with your personal severance package, contact Sheree Donath at sheree@donathlaw.com or by clicking here.
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