Should you sign a severance agreement without review in La Habra?
No, you should not sign a severance agreement without having an attorney review it first. Severance agreements often contain complex legal terms that could impact your future employment, benefits, and legal rights. An attorney can help you understand what you are giving up and whether the terms are fair under California law.
Signing without proper review can mean you unknowingly waive important claims or accept less than you deserve. Your employer's lawyer drafted the agreement to protect the company's interests, not yours.
What types of severance and contract issues does Casa Legal Los Angeles handle in La Habra?
Casa Legal Los Angeles represents employees in La Habra and across Orange County with various employment contract and severance issues. This includes reviewing severance agreements, employment contracts, non-compete clauses, and non-solicitation agreements. We also assist with issues related to compensation, bonuses, stock options, and wrongful termination in breach of contract.
Our focus is on ensuring your employment agreements are fair and enforceable, and that you receive proper compensation if your employment ends. You can learn more about our broader employment law services on our practice area hub.
What should you do after being offered a severance agreement?
- Do Not Sign Anything Immediately: Most severance agreements provide a specific timeframe, often 21 or 45 days, for you to review and consider the offer. Use this time.
- Gather All Relevant Documents: Collect your employment contract, offer letters, performance reviews, pay stubs, and any other documents related to your employment and termination.
- Consult with an Attorney: Seek legal advice from an attorney experienced in employment law. They can explain the terms, negotiate better conditions, and ensure your rights are protected. If you are in La Habra, remember that employment law issues can be complicated, and getting advice is important. We help people in other communities like Agoura Hills and Alhambra with these same kinds of issues.
- Do Not Discuss with Coworkers: Avoid discussing the severance offer or your plans with current or former colleagues, as this could breach confidentiality clauses or harm your position.
- Understand Your Rights: An attorney will help you understand if you have grounds for a claim beyond the severance offer, such as for retaliation or discrimination.
Where do La Habra employment claims get filed?
An employment contract or severance claim arising in La Habra is generally filed in the Superior Court of California, County of Orange. The main courthouse for civil cases is the Central Justice Center, located at 700 Civic Center Dr W, Santa Ana, CA 92701. This community is in Orange County, not Los Angeles County. A personal injury claim arising here is filed in the Superior Court of California, County of Orange rather than with the Los Angeles Superior Court.
How long do you have to file an employment claim in California?
The deadline to file an employment claim in California varies significantly depending on the type of claim. For most personal injury claims, including those involving emotional distress in an employment context, you have two years from the date of injury to file a lawsuit under Cal. Code Civ. Proc. § 335.1. However, claims against a city, county, or public agency must first be presented within six months of the incident under Cal. Gov. Code § 911.2.
The deadline is generally paused while an injured person is a minor under CCP § 352, but § 352(b) removes that pause for claims against public entities under the Government Claims Act. Other employment claims, such as those for wage and hour violations or discrimination, have different statutes of limitations, some as short as one year or requiring administrative complaints within 180 days or one year. It is important to confirm the specific deadlines that apply to your facts with an attorney.
What does working with Casa Legal Los Angeles involve?
Working with Casa Legal Los Angeles means having experienced legal professionals on your side. We begin by thoroughly reviewing your situation, your employment history, and any documents involved, such as your severance agreement or employment contract. We explain your rights and options in plain language, helping you understand the legal implications of your choices. Our goal is to achieve the best possible outcome for you, whether that involves negotiating the terms of an agreement, pursuing a claim for wrongful termination, or addressing other employment disputes.
We work to protect your financial interests and future career. Our firm handles a wide range of executive and professional employment issues, as well as general employee rights concerns. We pursue the full compensation available under California law.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a severance agreement?
A severance agreement is a contract between an employer and an employee that outlines the terms of the employee's departure from the company, often in exchange for a payment. These agreements typically include provisions for a lump sum payment or continued benefits, and in return, the employee usually waives their right to sue the employer for certain claims, including wrongful termination or discrimination. Reviewing these terms carefully with an attorney helps protect your future.
Can an attorney negotiate severance terms?
Yes, an attorney can negotiate the terms of a severance agreement on your behalf. This can include seeking a higher severance payment, extending benefits, modifying non-compete or non-solicitation clauses, or clarifying language to better protect your interests. Many employers expect some negotiation, and having legal representation ensures you are not leaving money or rights on the table.
Are non-compete clauses enforceable in California?
Generally, non-compete clauses are unenforceable in California under Business and Professions Code section 16600, which states that every contract restraining anyone from engaging in a lawful profession, trade, or business is void. There are limited exceptions, such as in the sale of a business. However, employers sometimes include them anyway, and it's important to have an attorney review such clauses in your contract or severance agreement.
Where in La Habra can I find legal help for contract review?
If you are in La Habra and need an attorney to review an employment contract or severance agreement, Casa Legal Los Angeles provides experienced legal assistance. While our physical office may not be in La Habra itself, we represent clients throughout Orange County, including those in La Habra. Our team is familiar with the local court system, including the Superior Court of California, County of Orange. You can reach out to us for a consultation to discuss your specific situation.
If you have been presented with a severance agreement or have questions about an employment contract, contact Casa Legal Los Angeles. We are here to help protect your rights and ensure you understand your options. Call us at 888-585-2529 for a consultation. No attorney's fees unless we win — and no case costs either.