If you’ve been offered a severance package upon leaving your job, it’s essential to understand the legal and financial implications before signing anything. Employers often include restrictive clauses that waive your rights or limit future claims. At Castronovo & McKinney, LLC, we help employees in Greenwich Township Protect Their Rights by reviewing, negotiating, and litigating severance agreements.

What Is a Severance Agreement?

A severance agreement is a contract between an employer and an employee that outlines the terms of separation. It typically includes a financial payment, continuation of benefits, or other compensation in exchange for a release of legal claims or confidentiality provisions. While not required by law, many companies offer severance to minimize risk and ensure a smooth exit.

What’s Commonly Included?

• Severance pay (usually based on years of service)
• Payment for unused PTO or vacation days
• Continuation of health benefits (e.g., COBRA)
• Non-disparagement and confidentiality clauses
• Waiver of claims related to discrimination, wrongful termination, or harassment
• Noncompete or non-solicitation provisions

These terms may seem standard—but many are negotiable, especially if your termination involved legal violations or unfair treatment.

Why You Should Never Sign Without Legal Review

By signing a severance agreement, you may be giving up the right to sue your employer for discrimination, retaliation, unpaid wages, or other violations. Once signed, the agreement is enforceable—even if you later learn your termination was unlawful.

It’s critical to have an employment attorney review the document to ensure it’s fair, compliant, and in your best interest.

When to Contact a Lawyer

• You’re being pressured to sign quickly
• You’re unsure of what rights you’re waiving
• The severance amount seems low or unfair
• The agreement includes broad restrictions or vague language
• You suspect you were wrongfully terminated or discriminated against

How Castronovo & McKinney, LLC Can Help

Castronovo & McKinney, LLC is a trusted employment law firm serving clients in Greenwich Township and throughout New Jersey. Our attorneys can help you review your severance agreement, negotiate better terms, and pursue legal claims if necessary. We’re committed to ensuring your exit is handled with fairness and dignity—and that you don’t leave money or legal rights on the table.

Make Sure Your Severance Serves You

Before signing a severance agreement, take the time to fully understand what it means for your future. You may be entitled to more than what’s initially offered.

Greenwich Township Castronovo & McKinney, Employment Law Attorneys are here to help you review, negotiate, and secure a fair severance package.

Contact Information

New Jersey Office:
71 Maple Ave
Morristown, NJ 07960
Phone: 973.920.7888
Fax: 973.920.7924

New York Office:
420 Lexington Avenue, Suite 1830
New York, NY 10170
Phone: 646.755.3781
Fax: 646.755.3781