In Atlantic City, employees facing termination, layoff, or resignation may encounter severance agreements. These agreements can lead to employees waiving crucial legal rights, including the right to sue their former employer. It’s essential to consult with a proficient employment lawyer before signing any severance agreement. At Castronovo & McKinney, LLC, we focus on safeguarding employee rights throughout every stage of employment, from hiring to termination. Severance agreements often benefit employers more than employees, so we ensure your rights are protected. Contact us for a detailed evaluation of your severance agreement and professional guidance.
What is a Severance Agreement?
A severance agreement outlines the rights and obligations of both the employer and the employee during job termination. These agreements typically safeguard the employer’s interests and may include clauses such as:
- Non-disclosure: Restricts the employee from revealing termination details or confidential information.
- Non-compete: Prevents the employee from joining a competitor or starting a similar business.
- Non-disparagement: Prohibits negative remarks about the employer.
- Waiver of Rights: Requires employees to relinquish their right to sue the employer in return for a severance package.
Employees should have their severance agreements reviewed by a skilled employment attorney to ensure their rights are protected and they understand the agreement’s impact on future employment opportunities.
Essential Elements of a Severance Agreement
Severance agreements should include key elements to protect your interests:
- Severance Pay: Employers may be obligated to provide severance pay based on the employment contract, state or federal laws, or company policies. An employment lawyer can ensure you receive all deserved severance benefits, including accrued paid time off, unpaid bonuses, and other compensations.
- Medical Benefits: Federal law entitles you to continue your health insurance under the company’s plan for up to 18 months post-termination. A legal expert can negotiate with your employer to cover these payments for a specified period or agree on a lump-sum payment.
- References: Employers typically confirm your employment and good standing when approached by potential future employers.
- Dispute Resolution: Severance agreements often mandate arbitration for dispute resolution. An employment attorney skilled in alternative dispute resolution can ensure fair conduct of arbitration proceedings. If necessary, our trial lawyers are prepared for litigation.
- Confidentiality: Severance agreement terms usually remain confidential, with exceptions for disclosures to family, attorneys, or in legal or arbitration proceedings.
Employers often have the upper hand in termination scenarios, but our negotiation expertise will ensure your rights are safeguarded. We aim to secure the severance pay you deserve and uphold your right to future employment.
Why Choose Castronovo & McKinney, LLC
If you’re facing termination in Atlantic City, it might be tempting to quickly sign the severance agreement. However, this is a critical moment to consult with an experienced employment lawyer. Our team will clarify your rights, meticulously review the severance agreement, and manage all communications with your employer and their legal representatives. Rely on us to advocate for a thorough severance package that safeguards your legal rights and interests.
Contact Our Experienced New Jersey Severance Agreement Attorneys
Facing termination can be stressful, and hastily signing a severance agreement might seem like the easiest path. However, it’s crucial not to sign away your legal rights without proper counsel. At Castronovo & McKinney, LLC, we specialize in guiding clients through severance agreements. Serving Atlantic City and other areas in New Jersey, our experienced employment lawyers ensure your rights are fully protected in these critical moments.