Losing a job is usually a traumatic experience, especially if you think you were fired without cause. When you have a position of status in the company and make a large salary, losing your job is an even bigger concern. If you think you've been treated unfairly or you want to make sure your termination contract is right for you, then consulting with an employment lawyer is a wise choice. Here are some things you may want to discuss.
The Reason You Were Fired
Laws are in place to protect your employment security. You can't be fired due to discrimination, even for age discrimination. It's also illegal to fire someone in retaliation for whistleblowing, trying to form a union, or doing some other action that displeases the company owners or your supervisor. Your employment might also be protected by your initial employment contract that defines actions that could get you fired. If your job is important to you and you think you were fired illegally, then talk to an employment lawyer for advice on what you can do.
The Salary And Benefits You Have Due
Another area that might get murky when you're fired is your last pay, insurance coverage, vacation pay, and other benefits you have accrued but not taken yet. An attorney can help you know what you're entitled to and make sure you get it in a timely manner. If it turns out you aren't legally entitled to some benefits you thought you were, you'll at least have peace of mind that your old employer isn't lying to you or trying to get out of paying you money.
Your Severance Package
If you're offered a severance package, it's usually in return for something such as not suing the company for letting you go. You may not be happy with the offer, but you may not know what to do about it. A severance package can often be negotiated, and a lawyer is better able to handle this process to ensure you get the money you deserve out of the agreement. Plus, the package is part of a termination contract that a lawyer should look over before you sign so you don't sign something that comes back to haunt you later.
When you get fired, you're upset and emotional. An attorney is an unbiased third party who can look at your situation and offer impartial advice. This advice can make a big difference in your employment and financial future, especially if you have an executive career. Hiring an employment lawyer helps you in several ways, but most of all, it ensures you have someone looking after your best interests when your employer no longer is. Contact a law firm like Law Offices of Terry K. Davis to find out more.
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