Ed Sweeney
Franny Ryan
If you are navigating the complexities of a severance package, it is crucial to have experienced legal counsel to ensure that your rights are fully protected and that you receive everything you are entitled to. At Wusinich, Sweeney & Ryan, LLC, we specialize in providing precise and effective legal advice on severance issues. Our extensive experience with employment law gives us the insight needed to meticulously review severance agreements, negotiate the best possible terms, and help you understand any implications related to non-compete covenants or other restrictive clauses.
Our partners, Ed Sweeney and Franny Ryan, bring a wealth of knowledge and a unique perspective to each case. With decades of combined experience, they are well-versed in representing employees who face challenges with their employers. Whether you’re a high-level executive or an everyday worker, our firm is committed to advocating on your behalf with vigor and integrity. We have successfully supported numerous clients through severance negotiations, ensuring they walk away with favorable outcomes and peace of mind. Trust Wusinich, Sweeney & Ryan to provide the expertise and dedicated representation you need during this critical time.
When it comes to reviewing your severance package, the experienced attorneys at Wusinich, Sweeney & Ryan, LLC are your best choice. Our firm brings a wealth of knowledge and a unique blend of expertise shaped by decades of dedicated service in employment law. We understand that navigating severance agreements can be daunting, but with our meticulous attention to detail and commitment to our clients, we ensure that you receive the guidance and support you need.
By choosing Wusinich, Sweeney & Ryan, you are selecting a team that is dedicated to securing the best possible outcome for your severance package. We invite you to learn more about how we can assist you in this critical transition in your career.
A severance agreement is a legally binding employment contract between both the employer and an employee outlining the terms of the employee’s departure from the company. This document typically includes details about severance pay, benefits continuation, and other post-employment obligations. It may also include provisions such as non-disparagement clauses, confidentiality agreements, and non-compete clauses. Understanding the implications of these terms is critical before signing, making it essential to seek legal expertise.
The enforceability of severance agreements can vary depending on several factors, including the clarity of the terms, the circumstances under which the agreement was signed, and compliance with relevant state and federal laws. In Pennsylvania, severance agreements must adhere to both statutory requirements and common law principles to be legally binding. Our attorneys are well-versed in the nuances of these agreements and will thoroughly review the document to ensure it is both fair and enforceable.
Negotiating a severance agreement can be complex and requires a strategic approach to secure favorable terms. Our legal team at Wusinich, Sweeney & Ryan will meticulously analyze the offered agreement and identify any areas for improvement. We will negotiate directly with your employer to enhance severance pay, extend benefit periods, and clarify any restrictive covenants that may impact your future employment opportunities. Our goal is to maximize your benefits while minimizing potential restrictions.
Unfortunately, discriminatory practices can sometimes influence the terms of a severance package. If you suspect that discrimination based on age, gender, race, disability, or other protected characteristics has affected your severance offer, it is crucial to seek legal guidance. Our attorneys will investigate any potential discrimination and take appropriate action to ensure you receive a fair and equitable severance package.
Under Federal law, various protections are in place to safeguard workers who receive separation agreements and severance packages. One of the primary statutes is the Older Workers Benefit Protection Act (OWBPA), which amends the Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA). The OWBPA requires that severance agreements involving employees aged 40 and above must include specific provisions to ensure that the agreement is understood and entered into voluntarily by the employee. The Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification (WARN) Act mandates that employers provide 60 days’ notice in advance of covered plant closings and mass layoffs. This federal law is designed to provide employees with sufficient lead time to seek alternative employment or retraining opportunities, helping to mitigate the impact of job loss.
In Pennsylvania, state law complements federal protections with additional provisions. The Pennsylvania Human Relations Act (PHRA) prohibits employment discrimination based on race, color, religious creed, ancestry, age, sex, national origin, and disability. This act ensures that any severance package offered in the state must be free from discriminatory practices. Pennsylvania has its own set of fair employment practices and severance guidelines that employers must follow, which include providing clear and comprehensive information about any waiver of rights or claims. Pennsylvania courts have also emphasized the importance of clear and equitable terms in severance agreements, reinforcing the requirement that such agreements must not be coercive or misleading.
Before signing any severance package, it is imperative to perform the following steps:
Wusinich, Sweeney & Ryan is committed to providing comprehensive legal support for employees facing severance agreements. We offer a detailed review of your severance package, highlight potential risks, and negotiate on your behalf to achieve improved terms. Our client-first approach ensures that your interests are prioritized, and your legal rights are protected throughout the entire process.
If you need assistance with a severance agreement in Pennsylvania, don’t hesitate to contact Wusinich, Sweeney & Ryan. Schedule a free consultation today to discuss your situation and explore how our experience can benefit you.
We represent clients throughout Chester County, Lancaster County and Delaware County including but not limited to Downingtown, West Chester, Exton, Coatesville, Phoenixville, Malvern, Lyndell, Wagontown, Uwchland, Parkesburg, Chester Springs.
