Severance Agreements in Atlantic City: Protect Yourself Before You Sign

Being let go from a job can be a difficult and emotional experience. To ease the transition, many employers offer severance agreements—contracts that provide compensation or benefits in exchange for certain terms, often including a release of legal claims. If you're in Atlantic City and presented with a severance package, it's essential to understand what you're signing and how it may affect your future rights.

What Is a Severance Agreement?

A severance agreement is a legally binding contract between an employer and employee that outlines the terms of separation. While New Jersey law does not require employers to offer severance pay, many companies do so to protect themselves from future lawsuits.

Typical components of a severance agreement include:

Monetary severance payments
Continuation of health benefits
Outplacement services
Non-disparagement clauses
Waiver of legal claims against the employer
Noncompete or confidentiality obligations

Why You Should Never Sign Without Legal Review

Many severance agreements include complex legal language that could waive your rights to pursue claims for discrimination, harassment, retaliation, or unpaid wages. Once you sign, it can be extremely difficult—or impossible—to reverse.

An experienced employment attorney can:

Analyze the agreement for unfair or unlawful provisions
Explain your legal rights and what you may be giving up
Negotiate for a higher payout or better terms
Ensure compliance with state and federal labor laws

In some cases, employees have valid legal claims and may be entitled to more than what’s being offered. Don’t settle for less than you deserve.

Severance and Discrimination Claims

It's common for severance agreements to include a waiver of claims under the New Jersey Law Against Discrimination (NJLAD) or federal laws like Title VII, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), or the Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA). If you suspect your termination was unlawful, signing a severance agreement without legal guidance could cost you your right to file a lawsuit.

How Castronovo & McKinney, LLC Can Help

Castronovo & McKinney, LLC is a leading New Jersey employment law firm focused on Protecting Your Rights. We’ve reviewed and negotiated hundreds of severance agreements for employees in Atlantic City and across the state. Our attorneys have deep experience spotting red flags, maximizing payouts, and ensuring your long-term legal interests are safeguarded.

Whether you’re an executive or entry-level employee, we provide personalized, strategic advice at a critical time in your career.

Get Legal Protection in Atlantic City

Don’t feel pressured to sign away your rights. If you’ve been offered a severance agreement, let us help you make an informed decision that protects your financial future and legal options.

Atlantic City Castronovo & McKinney, Employment Law Attorneys are ready to review, negotiate, and advocate for the best possible outcome in your severance situation.