If your employer offered you a severance agreement after letting you go, do not sign anything before talking to an attorney. We review every part of the agreement, address any concerns, and answer all your questions before you make a final decision.
Most severance agreements give you some time to look over the terms before signing. Do not wait too long. Reach out to us today before you sign anything that could affect your future.
Helping You Get the Best Severance Package Possible
Losing your job is already hard enough. Dealing with a confusing legal document on top of that makes it even harder. Many employees feel rushed to sign without fully understanding what they are giving up.
We make sure you understand every part of your agreement before you sign it. We fight to get you the best possible outcome and to make sure your rights are protected throughout the process.
What Is a Severance Agreement?
When an employer terminates an employee’s job, they sometimes offer a severance package. This can include pay, health insurance, and other benefits to help the employee get by until they find new work. Before receiving these benefits, the employee must sign a severance agreement, a legal document that outlines all the terms of the termination.
The agreement often asks employees to give up any legal claims they may have against the employer. Once you sign it, you generally lose the right to file future legal claims against the company. This is why you should talk to an attorney before agreeing to anything in the document.
What Should You Negotiate in Your Severance Agreement?
There is often room to negotiate better terms. A typical severance package may include:
- Severance pay is based on your salary and length of service.
- Health insurance benefits for you and your family for a set period.
- Other benefits, like life insurance or bonus payments.
- Extra pay for unused sick leave and vacation time.
- Help finding a new job, including reference letters and resume support.
Your employer will also likely ask you to agree to certain terms. Some common ones include:
- A confidentiality clause stops you from sharing private company information.
- A non-compete clause stops you from working for a competitor for a set period.
- Non-disparagement clause stopping you from making negative comments about the company.
- Non-solicitation clause stopping you from taking clients or employees away.
- Release of claims, giving up your right to sue for discrimination or wrongful termination.
What Laws Protect Your Severance Rights in Illinois?
Illinois workers have legal protections when it comes to severance agreements. State and federal laws give employees the right to review any agreement before making a final decision. These laws also protect workers from being pressured to give up legal rights they do not fully understand.
If your severance agreement asks you to give up claims related to discrimination, harassment, or wrongful termination, we can help you understand what you are giving up and whether it is worth negotiating before you sign.
Why Should You Speak to a Lawyer Before Signing?
Signing without legal advice could cost you important rights later on. An attorney can look at every term and let you know if anything could limit your options in the future.
If there is any chance you want to take legal action against your employer for discrimination or wrongful termination, signing the release of claims could take away your right to do so. We can review your agreement and help you negotiate better terms before you commit.
How Our Severance Attorneys Fight for You
We review every line of your severance agreement and explain what each term means for your future. We spot any parts that could hurt you and help you push for better terms before you sign anything.
We have helped many employees across Illinois secure fair severance packages that protect their rights and futures. When you work with us, you never have to face this process alone.
Ready to Take Action?
If your employer has given you a severance agreement to sign, reach out to us right away. Time matters because waiting too long can cause you to lose certain legal rights you would otherwise have.
We offer a free consultation to every client, and you pay nothing unless we win your case. Reach out today and let us help you protect your future.