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- New Jersey Severance and Separation Lawyer
- New Jersey Whistleblower Retaliation Lawyer
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SEVERANCE
LOSING YOUR JOB CAN BE A MAJOR FINANCIAL SETBACK
Separating from an employer is a critical moment. Employees potentially have the right to severance, or they can negotiate a severance package. In return, an employer might require certain promises from the employee, such as a promise not to sue. Contact The Law Offices of Usmaan Sleemi to discuss a severance proposal. Our firm has deep experience in scrutinizing non-compete and nondisclosure agreements, which an employer might require in return for payment. An experienced Paramus severance pay attorney is available to answer questions or go over a proposed severance package.
Parts of a Severance Package
Some employees wrongly think that severance is simply a lump sum payment to a departing employee. But there are many different moving parts to typical severance agreements:
- Pay
- Benefits, including extended health coverage
- Payment of unused vacation or personal time
- Stock options or other retirement benefits
- In return, an employer might request that you sign:
- Release of claims. You agree not to sue your former employer. This is a critical consideration for many employers.
- Non-disparagement agreement. You agree not to disparage your former employer in any way.
Confidentiality or non-disclosure agreements. You agree not to disclose or use certain confidential information, such as intellectual property or trade secrets. Some employers might try to keep secret information regarding sexual relationships on the job, harassment, or other embarrassing information.
Employers might also demand that you sign a non-solicitation or non-compete agreement.
Negotiating on Behalf of Our Clients
Many employees are unaware that they can negotiate a severance agreement. An employer might be eager to pay a hefty severance to avoid disclosure of embarrassing information or a subsequent lawsuit.
New Jersey has revised its Law Against Discrimination to prohibit waiver of claims related to harassment, discrimination, or retaliation. These laws also give employees the right to disclose details related to these claims, even if subject to a non-disclosure agreement.
A departing employee should hire a firm that knows these recent laws and how they can impact settlement negotiations.
FAQs about Severance Pay in Paramus
Am I entitled to severance pay?
You are if your employment agreement gives you the right. But most workers are “at will,” which means they have no contract. In those situations, an employer is not obligated to offer severance but they might.
Can I be forced to give up my right to sue for discrimination?
No. You can’t be forced to give up these rights.
How do I know if a severance package is fair?
We consider many factors, including your industry, experience, and pay at separation. We also review whether you have valid legal claims to bring against an employer. An employee with a strong legal case for unpaid wages might have a strong hand in negotiations.
Contact a Paramus Severance Pay Attorney to Discuss Your Legal Rights
Severance pay provides critical financial support to departing employees. However, an employer might overreach and demand that you sign away important rights. Contact our law office to understand how we approach severance negotiations by calling 973-866-9415. Our firm has helped many departing workers hold firm and obtain fair payment.