Severance Agreement Lawyers in New Jersey

Before You Sign Anything, Know What You're Giving Up

A severance agreement might look like a kind gesture — or feel like your only option. But buried in the fine print could be serious legal consequences: waiving your rights, limiting future employment, or agreeing not to speak out about what happened.

Brandon J. Broderick New Jersey severance agreement attorneys help employees review, negotiate, and improve severance packages. If you're leaving voluntarily, being laid off, or pushed to resign, we're here to protect your interests before you sign away your leverage.

What Is a Severance Agreement?

A severance agreement is a legal contract between an employer and employee that outlines compensation and terms after employment ends. These agreements often include:

• Severance pay (weeks or months of salary)
• Health insurance extensions (COBRA)
• Non-disparagement clauses
• Confidentiality agreements
• Waivers of legal claims (e.g. wrongful termination, discrimination, retaliation)
• Non-compete or non-solicit clauses

Here's the key: once you sign, you may give up your right to pursue legal action — even if your employer broke the law. That's why getting legal guidance beforehand is critical.

Common Issues Hidden in Severance Agreements

• Waiving the right to sue for discrimination, harassment, or unpaid wages
• Gag clauses that prevent you from speaking out
• Broad non-compete agreements that limit future job opportunities
• One-sided language that protects the employer but not the employee
• Deadlines that pressure you to sign quickly, without legal review
• "Take-it-or-leave-it" offers that may not reflect your real leverage

If you're being offered severance or pressured to accept it, you have the right to negotiate — and to fully understand what you're agreeing to.

What to Do If You've Been Given a Severance Package

1. Do Not Sign Right Away

You are not required to sign a severance agreement on the spot. In many cases, you have 21 days or more to review it — and that time is for you to get legal advice.

2. Review Every Clause Carefully

What looks like boilerplate language may carry legal weight. Even one sentence can significantly impact your rights and future.

3. Talk to a New Jersey Severance Agreement Lawyer

We'll review your agreement, explain what it actually says, and help you negotiate for more favorable terms — more money, less restriction, or protection of your rights.

How Our New Jersey Severance Lawyers Can Help

We've reviewed and negotiated hundreds of severance agreements for employees at every level — from hourly staff to senior executives. We know the language, the risks, and the opportunities to improve your outcome.

When you work with Brandon J. Broderick Employment Lawyers, you'll get:

• A fast, confidential review of your severance package
• Clear explanations of what each clause means
• A strategy for negotiating better terms
• A legal team that advocates for your future — not just your exit

What You May Be Able to Negotiate

Depending on your situation, we can help you pursue:

• Higher severance pay or extended salary continuation
• Additional benefits (insurance, bonuses, stock options)
• Neutral references or expunged HR records
• Changes to restrictive clauses (non-compete, NDA, non-disparagement)
• Preservation of legal rights if discrimination or retaliation occurred
• Flexible timelines for accepting or exiting

Even if the offer looks final, there's almost always room to negotiate — especially if your employer wants to avoid legal exposure.

Frequently Asked Questions: Severance Agreements in NJ

Am I entitled to severance pay in New Jersey?

Not automatically. There's no law requiring employers to offer severance — but once they do, it becomes a legal negotiation. That's where you may have leverage.

What rights do I give up by signing?

You may waive your right to sue for wrongful termination, discrimination, retaliation, or wage violations. That's why legal review is essential — especially if you believe something unfair happened.

Can I still negotiate if I already signed?

Maybe. In some cases, severance agreements can be challenged if they were signed under pressure, without clarity, or in violation of state or federal law. Contact us right away.

How long do I have to sign?

Most agreements offer 21 days to review, plus a 7-day revocation period under federal law (for age-related claims). But deadlines vary — so read the fine print carefully.

What if I refuse to sign?

You can walk away — but you may give up severance pay or benefits. That's why it's critical to review your options with an attorney before deciding.

Before You Sign Away Your Rights, Let's Make Sure It's the Right Deal

Severance packages are legal contracts — designed to protect the employer. We're here to make sure they protect you, too. Let's review your agreement, protect your future, and negotiate from a position of strength.