San Diego Severance Agreement Lawyer

San Diego Severance Agreement Attorney

Being presented with a severance agreement after termination can feel overwhelming. These agreements usually contain complex terms that may significantly impact your future. A San Diego severance agreement lawyer can help you fully understand these terms and negotiate for an arrangement that aligns with your goals and protects your rights.

At the Law Offices of Corbett H. Williams, we are committed to helping San Diego employees navigate severance agreements with confidence. Our team provides thorough reviews and strategic negotiation to ensure you receive terms that reflect your interests and secure your future.

Why Choose the Law Offices of Corbett H. Williams?

Severance agreements are more than just documents. They often determine your ability to take legal action and secure fair terms for your transition. These agreements can have an impact on your career, finances, and legal rights for years to come. Understanding every aspect of the agreement is essential to protect all of your interests and avoid unintended consequences.

At the Law Offices of Corbett H. Williams, we offer unparalleled dedication and legal acumen. Our founding attorney graduated cum laude in the top 3% of the class. Backed by this strong academic foundation, our team is committed to providing careful, thorough reviews and skilled negotiations. We work tirelessly to ensure employees feel empowered and supported when navigating complex agreements in San Diego.

What Is Typically Covered in a Severance Agreement

A severance agreement is a legal document that outlines an employee’s separation terms from their employer. It typically includes details about severance pay, which may be a lump sum or payments over time, as well as the continuation of benefits like health insurance. Employers are not required by law to offer severance pay, but many do.

Other common components of severance agreements include confidentiality clauses, non-compete agreements, and waivers of legal claims that may prevent an employee from suing their former employers for specific reasons.

Additional terms may address the return of company property, non-disparagement agreements to prevent negative comments about the employer, and sometimes funds for outplacement services to help the employee transition to a new role. While these agreements often offer financial stability as the worker transitions to a new job, it is still important to consult with an attorney to ensure that the agreement does not violate the worker’s rights and interests.

What Are the Consequences of Signing an Unfavorable Severance Agreement?

Signing an unfavorable severance agreement can have long-term implications for your rights, finances, and career opportunities. Many agreements include waivers that prevent you from filing legal claims against your ex-employer, even in cases of discrimination or wrongful termination.

Restrictive clauses like non-compete or non-solicitation agreements may limit your ability to work in your industry or contact former clients. Without legal representation, you may end up undervaluing your contributions to a company. Severance pay and benefits should be commensurate with your contributions to the business.

Without a thorough review by an attorney, you sign something that is legally binding and leaves little room for recourse. Without careful review, you could unknowingly waive important rights or agree to conditions that harm you both professionally and financially.

How an Attorney Can Help

An attorney plays a crucial role in ensuring your severance agreement is fair and aligns with your interests. They can carefully review the documents and identify terms that may be overly restrictive and unfavorable, such as waivers of legal claims, non-compete clauses, or low severance pay. With their help, an attorney can explain the implications of each provision and help you make informed decisions.

Beyond reviewing the documents, your lawyer can negotiate on your behalf to secure more favorable terms. They may advocate for increased severance pay, extended benefits, or the removal of overly restrictive clauses. Without legal guidance, you risk overlooking key details or accepting terms that harm your career and financial stability.

FAQs

Q: Should I Hire a Lawyer to Negotiate My Severance?

A: Engaging a lawyer to negotiate your severance can be beneficial, especially if the agreement includes complex legal terms or restrictive clauses like non-compete or confidentiality provisions. An attorney can help ensure the terms are appropriate and that your rights are protected. They can also assist in negotiating better terms, like increased severance pay or extended benefits.

Q: What Is the New Law for Severance Agreements in California?

A: Effective January 1, 2022, California’s Silenced No More Act (SB 331) imposes new restrictions on severance agreements. Employers are prohibited from including clauses that prevent employees from disclosing information about unlawful acts in the workplace, such as harassment or discrimination. Employers must provide employees with at least five business days to consider a severance agreement and inform them of their right to consult an attorney.

Q: What Is a Typical Severance Package in California?

A: In California, severance packages are not mandated by law and can vary widely. Typically, they may include a lump-sum payment or continued salary for a specified period, often calculated based on tenure (one to two weeks of pay per year of service). Other components can include payment for unused vacation days, continuation of health benefits, outplacement services, and clauses related to confidentiality or non-disparagement.

Q: How Do You Work Out a Severance Agreement?

A: Negotiating a severance agreement requires careful preparation. It begins with reviewing the agreement to understand its terms, including compensation and restrictive clauses like non-compete agreements. Assessing your role, tenure, and any potential legal claims helps you determine your negotiating position. Communicating your requests clearly and professionally while being prepared to compromise can lead to a favorable outcome.

Schedule Your San Diego Severance Agreement Today

Severance agreements often include terms that can have an impact on all of your rights and your financial future. Before agreeing to any conditions, it’s essential to have a skilled attorney review the document to ensure your interests are protected. A San Diego severance agreement lawyer can help you get through this process with confidence.

At the Law Offices of Corbett H. Williams, we offer free consultations to review your severance agreement and discuss your options. Don’t leave your future to chance. Get in touch with us today to schedule your consultation and secure the guidance you deserve.