If you have been laid off from your job, your employer may offer you a severance agreement. This is an agreement intended to provide you with a final payment so you can search for another job without worrying about your finances for a period of time. But, these agreements can be complicated and even unfair to employees. As a result, it is important to know what should be included when it comes to a severance agreement. Read on to learn more.
What Should Not be Included in a Severance Agreement?
Every severance agreement is different, and though they are generally given to employees with their best interests in mind, there are times where severance agreements may actually do more harm than good. For example, severance agreements that include the following clauses can be detrimental to you:
- A proprietary information clause: These protect any confidential information you’ve received regarding your company.
- A non-disparagement clause: These clauses are so that employees may not publicly speak negatively about anything having to do with the company after leaving.
- A non-solicitation clause: This prevents employees from recruiting or otherwise hiring co-workers from the company that laid them off.
- A non-compete clause: These clauses prohibit people from seeking employment from direct competitors of their former employer for a predetermined period of time.
- A release of legal claims: This clause prevents employees from making any sort of wrongful termination claims against their former employers. You should absolutely not sign such an agreement if you believe you were wrongfully terminated.
It is important to note that these clauses are very common.
Do I Need an Attorney When it Comes to Signing a Severance Agreement?
Some severance agreements are fair, but others can be unfair and even harmful to employees. To ensure that your agreement is fair, it is best to work with an experienced employment law attorney. Our firm is here to ensure that your rights are protected and that you are treated fairly.
If you have any questions or concerns regarding severance agreements in Georgia, our firm is here to help. Reach out today to speak with an experienced employment law attorney.
CONTACT OUR EXPERIENCED GEORGIA FIRM
If you need help with an employment law matter in the state of Georgia, you can count on Ben Barrett Law to effectively represent your interests. With over 30 years of experience, Attorney Barrett has the skill and experience necessary to help you navigate the complexities of any employment law matter you may be facing. To discuss your case with a legal team you can trust, please do not hesitate to contact Ben Barrett Law today.