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California Employment Law Glossary

Severance Agreement Review
Legal Process & Claims

 

Definition


 

When an employee is terminated or laid off, an employer will often present a severance agreement - a contract in which the employee releases all legal claims against the employer in exchange for a severance payment. Signing without legal review can permanently waive valuable rights, including claims for discrimination, unpaid wages, or wrongful termination. California law provides specific requirements for enforceable releases, and some provisions - such as non-disparagement clauses covering illegal conduct - may be unenforceable.


Frequently Asked Questions

Signing a severance agreement typically waives your right to sue your employer for claims like discrimination, wrongful termination, or unpaid wages, in exchange for the severance payment offered.

Often, yes. Severance terms, including the payment amount and specific provisions, can frequently be negotiated, especially with attorney involvement.

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Never sign a severance agreement without legal guidance. Contact us for a free case review - it could protect rights worth far more than the severance offered.
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Related

Practice Area

Wrongful Termination

See Also

PAGA Claims  ·  California Labor Code Claims  ·  DLSE Wage Claim

This glossary is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Reading this page does not create an attorney-client relationship with Lawyers for Employee and Consumer Rights. Laws change - for advice specific to your situation, contact our office for a free case review.