Severance Pay, Release of Claims

Severance pay in California is not required regardless of an employee's length of service. Some California employers, however, elect to voluntarily provide severance pay to their departing employees under circumstances defined by the employer.

If an employer maintains a policy of paying severance, its employees have a right to receive severance pay in accordance with the policy.

Employers can condition the payment of severance with the execution of a written release of all claims.

It is advisable that an experienced attorney review and evaluate both the agreement and the circumstances leading up to your departure from employment in order to fully and effectively advise you of the rights you may be giving up and your obligations under the agreement.