Severance Pay in California -- Top Key Facts Explained by Labor Law Attorney

Описание: Employment law attorney Neil Shouse of Shouse California Law Group explains severance pay in California.

More info at https://www.shouselaw.com/ca/labor/se... or call (877) SUE-MY-BOSS for a free consultation.

Should You Sign a Severance Agreement in California?

As a California employee, you might be surprised to learn that severance pay is not required by law. Employers offer it voluntarily, but it comes at a price: you must sign a "separation agreement." This is a legally binding contract.

The main purpose of this agreement, from your employer's perspective, is to have you give up your right to sue them. By signing, you waive your ability to file a lawsuit for serious violations like wrongful termination, workplace harassment, or discrimination.

You should never sign a severance agreement without having an experienced employment attorney review it first. We have seen countless agreements that contain illegal clauses. Once you sign, the contract is almost impossible to reverse, even if the terms are grossly unfair. An attorney can explain exactly what rights you are giving up and determine if the offer is fair for your situation.

Many employees don't realize that these packages are often negotiable. A skilled attorney can fight on your behalf for more pay, continued health insurance, and less restrictive conditions, all usually without having to go to trial.

It is also important to know that even if you sign, you can never waive certain rights in California. These include your right to file a wage and hour lawsuit for unpaid overtime and your right to collect unemployment benefits.

If you or a loved one has had your rights violated by an employer we invite you to contact us at Shouse Law Group. We can provide a free consultation in office or by phone. We have local offices in Los Angeles, the San Fernando Valley, Pasadena, Long Beach, Orange County, Ventura, San Bernardino, Rancho Cucamonga, Riverside, San Diego, Sacramento, Oakland, San Francisco, San Jose and throughout California.