What is a severance agreement in Linwood, NJ?

A severance agreement in Linwood, NJ is a contract offered by an employer when ending employment. It may include severance pay and benefits but often requires employees to waive legal claims. Consulting an employment attorney ensures you understand the full impact before signing.

Why should I have an attorney review my severance agreement in Linwood, NJ?

Employers draft severance agreements to protect their own interests. An attorney in Linwood, NJ can review the terms, explain your rights, and negotiate fair severance pay, benefits, and future employment protections.

What can be included in a severance agreement?

Severance agreements may include pay, health insurance continuation, references, and clauses like non-disclosure, non-compete, or arbitration. They also often require employees to waive the right to sue. Legal guidance ensures these terms are fair and enforceable.

Do I have to accept a severance agreement as it is?

No. Severance agreements can be negotiated. Employees in Linwood, NJ should have an attorney review the offer and advocate for better terms, including increased severance pay, extended medical benefits, or removal of restrictive clauses.

Castronovo & McKinney, LLC – Severance Attorneys in Linwood

If you’ve been terminated, laid off, or asked to resign in Linwood, NJ, your employer may present you with a severance agreement. These agreements often limit your legal rights—most importantly, the right to bring claims against your employer. Before signing, it is essential to have an experienced employment attorney review the terms. At Castronovo & McKinney, LLC, we focus on protecting employees’ rights in New Jersey and ensuring fair treatment during termination.

What Is a Severance Agreement?

A severance agreement defines the terms of employment separation. While it may provide compensation, its primary purpose is to protect the employer. Common provisions include:

Non-disclosure clauses: Restrict sharing details about the termination or company information.
Non-compete clauses: Limit future employment opportunities with competitors or related businesses.
Non-disparagement clauses: Prohibit making negative statements about the employer.

Most critically, these agreements usually require employees to waive the right to sue in exchange for severance pay. Because of these consequences, legal review is crucial.

Key Elements of a Severance Agreement

Each agreement is different, but certain areas are especially important to evaluate:

Severance Pay: Compensation may include salary continuation, unused vacation, bonuses, or other owed wages. An attorney ensures the offer is fair and compliant with the law.
Medical Benefits: Federal law (COBRA) allows health coverage for up to 18 months at the employee’s expense. Negotiation may secure extended coverage or alternative payment options.
References: Employers often limit references to verification of employment. Legal review can help negotiate fairer terms.
Dispute Resolution: Arbitration clauses may restrict court access. Skilled attorneys protect your interests in arbitration or litigation.
Confidentiality: Agreements are usually confidential. Lawyers can negotiate terms that protect your career while securing appropriate compensation.

Why Work With Castronovo & McKinney, LLC?

Signing a severance agreement without understanding its impact can jeopardize your future. Castronovo & McKinney, LLC reviews agreements, explains your rights, and handles communications with your employer’s legal team. Our goal is to protect your interests and secure a fair severance package while preserving your career opportunities.

Contact Our Attorneys

Termination is difficult, but you do not need to face it alone. Castronovo & McKinney, LLC provides guidance to employees in Linwood, NJ, ensuring severance agreements are fair and your rights are protected. Contact us today for a comprehensive review of your agreement and professional representation.