In terminating or laying-off employees, many employers offer some type of severance benefit, such as severance pay and continued medical insurance coverage.
Unfortunately, this may come with "strings attached", since the employee is often told that they will not be given the severance benefits unless they agree to sign a Severance Agreement, or other document, containing a "General Release", "Release of Rights, "Waiver of Rights", or some similarly titled document.
If valid, the employee's signature of such an agreement may have the effect of releasing the employer from all legal claims based upon prior events (except those which, by law, cannot be released) and may give up the employee's right to bring legal action or to recover damages for any illegal discrimination or other wrongs which may have occurred previously or as a basis for the termination.
The employment lawyers at Lowrie & Andrew Attorneys at Law are experienced in reviewing these types of agreements and are available to advise you as to your rights, and available courses of action, if you have been asked to sign or have already signed such an agreement.
Contact us today to schedule your free initial consultation.