Before you sign a severance agreement, check these 5 things

Severance Review
Written By Angela Chun

Before you sign a severance agreement, check these 5 things:
1. THE RELEASE. You’re giving up legal claims. Are any of them worth more than the check in front of you?
2. YOUR MONEY. Unpaid wages, commissions, a bonus, and accrued PTO are often owed to you separately — on top of severance.
3. NON-COMPETE LANGUAGE. In California, these are generally void. If one is in your agreement, that’s a red flag worth a closer look.
4. GAG CLAUSES. Overly broad non-disparagement and confidentiality terms can cross legal limits.
5. THE DEADLINE. Note every date. Signing early can forfeit time you’re entitled to use.
The offer in front of you was written by your employer’s lawyers. It’s worth the time to understand what it really means by an employment lawyer. Contact us for a no-obligation consult to confirm scope and fee for a severance review.

Angela Chun
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