Severance Agreements in Georgia

What Is a Severance Agreement?

A severance agreement is a legal contract an employer offers when an employee leaves the company. It typically includes:

• Severance pay 
• Benefits continuation (e.g., health insurance) 
• General Release of claims of Employee 
• Non-disclosure or confidentiality clauses 
• Non-compete or non-solicitation provisions 
• Return of company property 
• References and rehire eligibility

These terms determine what you get and what you’re giving up in exchange.

Key Components of a Severance Agreement

1. Severance Pay

Employers may offer a lump sum or payment over time. Look for details on pay amount, method, and timing. Watch for clauses that deduct outstanding loans or advances.

2. Benefit Continuation

Health insurance is often part of severance packages. Confirm the coverage period, costs, and whether you must elect COBRA. Or the employer may provide coverage directly.

3. Release of Claims

Virtually all severance agreements include a clause saying the employee waives all legal claims in exchange for the severance. These claims may include unlawful discrimination, breach of contract, wage theft, FMLA retaliation, and sexual  harassment. We will carefully assess whether you have any claims which you may be releasing by accepting the severance offer and negotiate a severance package for the employee which reflects the value of the release and other non-monetary terms. 

4. Confidentiality Clauses

These can bar you from discussing company practices or the terms of your agreement. Ensure these clauses don’t interfere with your right to speak about workplace misconduct.

5. Non-compete and Non-solicitation Clauses

Employers may require restrictions on post-employment work. Georgia Wage Lawyers review these clauses to confirm they are reasonable in scope, geography, and duration.

6. Attorney’s Fees

Some agreements include language stating that you cannot recover legal fees or that you must arbitrate or litigate any dispute under the severance agreement in a far off State.. We negotiate fair terms that make it possible to enforce your rights in a proper forum.

Red Flags to Watch Out For

Overly Broad Release Language

If you waive “all claims,” it may include rights you didn’t know you had. We help you identify and carve out critical protections.

Long Non-Competes

Non-competition clauses that last several years or cover large areas may limit future employment. We negotiate for fair, enforceable terms.

Mandatory Arbitration

Some agreements require arbitration for future claims. These clauses may hurt your ability to seek full compensation in court or have your claims heard by a jury. We weigh options and negotiate alternatives.

Unreasonable Confidentiality Requirements

You should not be forced to remain silent about illegal conduct. We adjust agreements to protect your right to speak to government agencies or in court.

Why You Need an Attorney

Navigate Legal Complexity

Lawyers read beyond the words. We spot what matters to your future income and career.

Negotiate Stronger Terms

We seek improved pay, longer benefit coverage, and fairer restrictions.

Protect Your Rights

We ensure you retain the ability to enforce claims in the future.

Avoid Costly Mistakes

One misstep—like signing too fast—can cost you thousands or silence your rights.