Do you need a lawyer to review a severance package in Pomona?
Yes, you should always have a lawyer review any severance agreement or employment contract before you sign it. Signing away your rights without understanding the full implications can cost you thousands of dollars or more, especially if you have a valid claim against your employer.
What does a lawyer do for a severance or contract issue?
A lawyer helps you understand the complex legal language in severance agreements and employment contracts. This means explaining what you are giving up, what you are getting, and whether the offer is fair given your specific situation and California employment law. Your lawyer also looks for hidden clauses, non-compete agreements, or waivers of rights that might prevent you from pursuing future claims. If you are in Pomona and dealing with an employment dispute, it’s smart to have legal counsel before signing anything. For general employment law questions, you can also look at our employment law hub.
What kinds of severance and contract issues do we help with?
We represent workers in Pomona who face issues with employment agreements and severance packages. This includes reviewing a proposed severance agreement after a job loss, negotiating its terms, and advising on employment contracts before you accept a new role. We also assist with issues like non-compete clauses, non-solicitation agreements, and confidentiality agreements. Our firm helps employees understand their rights when these contracts might impact their future career prospects or ability to work for competitors. Our team also handles issues like executive employment matters in Pomona or advising on general employee rights.
What should you do if you receive a severance offer or new employment contract?
- Do not sign anything immediately: Take the document home and review it carefully. You almost always have at least a few days to consider the offer.
- Gather all relevant documents: Collect your employment contract, any performance reviews, disciplinary notices, and communications related to your separation.
- Note any deadlines: Be aware of any dates by which you must accept or reject the offer. Some severance agreements, particularly those involving employees over 40, must provide at least 21 days to consider the agreement and 7 days to revoke acceptance under the Older Workers Benefit Protection Act.
- Avoid discussing details with former co-workers: Confidentiality clauses often prohibit discussing the terms of your departure.
- Contact a lawyer: An attorney can explain the terms, negotiate for better conditions, and ensure your rights are protected. We serve clients throughout the area, including those in Agoura Hills, Alhambra, and Bellflower.
Where would a severance or contract claim be filed in Pomona?
Most employment disputes, including those related to severance and contracts, will first involve negotiation or administrative claims with state agencies like the Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH) or the Division of Labor Standards Enforcement (DLSE). If a lawsuit becomes necessary, a case arising from an incident in Pomona would generally be filed in the Superior Court of California, County of Los Angeles. In Los Angeles County, a personal injury case is filed in the judicial district where the incident occurred and is assigned to that district's Personal Injury Hub department (LASC Local Rule 2.3; General Order re Assignment and Transfer of Personal Injury Cases, effective May 17, 2024). For Pomona, this means cases are typically heard at the Pomona Courthouse South, located at 400 Civic Center Plaza, Pomona, CA 91766.
How long do you have to file a claim related to severance or contracts?
The deadline to file a claim depends entirely on the type of claim you have. Many personal injury claims, for example, must be filed within two years (Cal. Code Civ. Proc. § 335.1), but other claims have much shorter deadlines. For instance, a claim against a city, county, or public agency must be presented within six months (Cal. Gov. Code § 911.2) before you can file a lawsuit. The deadline is generally paused while an injured person is a minor (Cal. Code Civ. Proc. § 352), but that pause does not apply to claims against public entities. Specific employment claims, such as wrongful termination or wage disputes, have their own deadlines, which can range from a few months to several years. A lawyer can help you determine the precise deadline for your particular claim. We also handle retaliation and whistleblowing claims in Pomona, which also have specific deadlines.
What does working with Casa Legal Los Angeles involve?
Working with our firm means you have a dedicated advocate who understands California employment law. We start by listening to your story and reviewing all relevant documents to understand your situation fully. We then explain your options clearly and help you decide the best course of action. This could involve negotiating the terms of a severance package, drafting an employment agreement, or representing you in litigation if your rights were violated. Our goal is to secure the best possible outcome for you, whether that means a fairer severance or full compensation for damages allowed under California law.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if my employer asks me to sign a non-compete agreement in Pomona?
California law generally prohibits non-compete agreements that restrict an employee from working for a competitor after leaving a job (Bus. & Prof. Code § 16600). If your employer asks you to sign one in Pomona, you should have an attorney review it to ensure it is enforceable or to advise you on your options. Many such agreements are invalid in California.
Can I negotiate the terms of my severance package?
Yes, many severance packages are negotiable. Employers often present an initial offer, but a skilled attorney can frequently negotiate for better terms, such as higher pay, extended benefits, outplacement services, or changes to restrictive clauses. This negotiation often depends on factors like your length of service and the circumstances of your departure.
How long do I have to review a severance agreement?
The time you have to review a severance agreement can vary, but federal law (the Older Workers Benefit Protection Act) requires employers to give employees over 40 at least 21 days to consider an agreement that waives Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA) claims, and 7 days to revoke acceptance after signing. For others, a "reasonable" time is usually provided.
What if my employer in Pomona is denying me benefits I’m owed?
If your employer in Pomona is denying you benefits like accrued vacation pay, unpaid wages, or COBRA continuation, you may have a claim. California law requires employers to pay all earned and unpaid wages, including vacation pay, upon termination (Labor Code § 201). Consulting a lawyer can help you understand your rights and pursue the benefits you are owed.
If you are facing a severance or contract issue in Pomona, contact Casa Legal Los Angeles today. We offer a no-cost, no-obligation review of your situation. You can reach us at 888-585-2529. No attorney’s fees unless we win — and no case costs either. This information is for general purposes and is not legal advice. Deadlines have exceptions, so always confirm what applies to your specific facts with an attorney.