When I started getting serious about my business and building my brand, I realized that I wasn't prepared to handle any legal problems that we might come across. I didn't know how to defend myself against allegations of wrongdoing in the business realm, but my company was getting large enough that it started to attract some unwanted attention from competitors. To set things straight, I decided to hire a business attorney to help us out. Our lawyer was amazing, and he went through and coached us so that we would know how to handle problems. I was really impressed with his services. This blog is all about why you should have a business attorney.
Most people would only consider hiring an employment attorney in the following situations: you have a wrongful termination or discrimination case against your employer, or you suspect a violation of wage and hour laws – such as not being paid for all overtime hours you've worked or your employer is taking steps to reduce its workforce through layoffs, terminations or other reductions-in-force. Here's why you should hire an employment attorney before you quit.
1. Get Advice About How Much Notice you Must Give
Not providing the required notice may lead your soon-to-be former employer to file a lawsuit against you, claiming damages for breach of contract. Your former employer may argue that it has been put on notice that another business has expressed interest in hiring you, and that by quitting without notice, you have harmed your former employer's recruiting efforts.
Your attorney can advise you about how much notice is required under the terms of your employment contract or company policy. In some cases, if a company has been sold or taken over by another company, employees might be required to give longer notice periods in order to ensure a smooth transition of their accounts and responsibilities.
2. Discuss Possible Severance Packages
In many cases, an employer may offer a reduced amount of severance in exchange for your release from liability. For example, your former employer may pay out final wages and provide a two-week paid vacation only in exchange for signing a general release of claims against the employer in question. If you're considering signing a severance agreement, it's important to have an employment lawyer review the document before you sign it.
An attorney can help negotiate a more favorable severance package for you and ensure that you are not taking on any additional liabilities by signing the agreement.
3. Review Any Separation Agreements
A separation agreement is a contract between you and your employer outlining the terms of your departure from the company. This document may include provisions such as a release of all claims against your former employer, restrictions on future employment or non-compete clauses.
It is important to have an employment lawyer review any separation agreements before you sign them, as they may be binding for a period of time after leaving your job. Your attorney can also negotiate better terms for you.
4. Know What Legal Claims You Have Against Your Employer
Even if you don't want to sue or think that your employer's conduct was unfair, it's important to have an employment lawyer provide a legal evaluation of your case. There may be claims for which the statute of limitations has already run out, but there may still be potential claims related to violations of wage and hour laws, discrimination or other types of workplace wrongdoing.
Having a lawyer's review can also help prevent making statements in online reviews, on social media or elsewhere that might later harm your ability to pursue any legal claim against your former employer.
For more information contact an employment attorney in your area.
Share13 December 2021
