If I get “let go” am I entitled to a severance package?

By Douglas Lipsky
Partner

Absent of an employment agreement obligating the employer to pay you severance, there’s no legal requirement for an employer to give you severance. An employer will give you severance really for one of three reasons. It’s required under the contract, good will of trying to help you bridge that gap between your old job and your new job and to buy the release. And a severance agreement, you’ll be releasing that employer any and all claims, from the beginning of the world to the date that you sign it, and the more liability exposure the employer sees more valuable the releases and the more they’re willing to pay.

About the Author

Douglas Lipsky is a co-founding partner of Lipsky Lowe LLP. He has extensive experience in all areas of employment law, including discrimination, sexual harassment, hostile work environment, retaliation, wrongful discharge, breach of contract, unpaid overtime, and unpaid tips. He also represents clients in complex wage and hour claims, including collective actions under the federal Fair Labor Standards Act and class actions under the laws of many different states. If you have questions about this article, contact Douglas today.