Losing your job is one of the most difficult things a person can go through. As someone who has been working in employment law for over 25 years, I can tell you that this is especially true for executives, professionals, and other high-level employees. If you have been terminated from your position, you are likely feeling a range of emotions, from hurt to fear. But this is not the time to feel sorry for yourself. This is the time to take action and protect your rights.

First and foremost, you need to hire a good lawyer. Don’t try to handle this situation alone – too much is at stake. As a high-level employee, you may be offered a severance package that may address stock options, commissions, or company bonuses. You may also have unused vacation pay or other benefits that you are entitled to. However, you could also potentially owe the company money through a draw, relocation bonus, or signing bonus.

An experienced employment lawyer can help you navigate these complex issues and negotiate the best possible deal. They can also help you understand any restrictive covenants in your severance package, such as confidentiality agreements, nonsolicitation clauses, and non-compete agreements. These agreements can have a significant impact on your ability to find future employment in your industry, so it is important to understand them fully and to address them if possible.

In addition to the financial and employment implications, there are also tax implications. You should consult your CPA or tax advisor to minimize your tax obligations and ensure unexpected tax liabilities do not catch you off guard.

Finally, you need to think about your professional reputation in the industry. How your termination is characterized to future potential employers can have a lasting impact on your career. An experienced employment lawyer can help you negotiate the terms of your termination to ensure that your reputation is protected as much as possible.

Remember, you are not alone. While employers often treat high-level employees with respect, even when terminating them, that doesn’t mean you will get the best result. By hiring a good employment lawyer and negotiating an amicable settlement, you can minimize the negative impact of your termination and move forward with your career. So don’t hesitate. If you have been notified of termination, contact an experienced employment lawyer and make the best of a bad situation.

By Adam P. Whitney, 617-338-7000; [email protected]

CONNECT WITH ADAM

RELATED PRACTICE AREAS

ADAM’S RECENT POSTS

BUSINESS OWNERS AND PARTNERS SHOULD BE PARANOID

BUSINESS OWNERS AND PARTNERS SHOULD BE PARANOID

Fox Moulder’s motto was “Trust No One.”  Lawyers can understand this paranoia.  Divorce lawyers know spouses cheat. Criminal lawyers know clients steal (and worse).  You should know that your business partners and key employees that you trust the most can betray you....

GET IN TOUCH

Law Office of Adam P. Whitney

265 Franklin Street, Suite 1702
Boston, MA 02110
617.338.7000
857.488.4082

ABOUT THE FIRM

PRACTICE AREAS

Business Litigation and Employment Law
Outside General Counsel
Shareholder / LLC / Partnership Disputes

ATTORNEYS

Adam Whitney

RESOURCES

Testimonials
Clients
Success Stories

DISCLAIMER

No attorney-client relationship is established by your use of this site. You must not send or share any confidential information about you or any legal issue without Attorney Whitney's express written permission. The content of this website may be considered advertising for legal services under the laws and rules of professional conduct. The content does not constitute legal advice.  The content is for information purposes only.  Legal advice cannot be provided unless you hire my firm and we perform a full review of the legal matter and the most current, applicable law.  The law in your state may be different than Massachusetts, so the information in the content may be completely irrelevant if you are outside of Massachusetts.