If your company is downsizing or trying to get you out of your position, and they are offering you some type of severance package, you don't want to verbally agree to anything or sign paperwork before talking with a lawyer. A lawyer will be one of the most important people when it comes to making sure that you get what you deserve before walking out the door, and so you know that you aren't being mistreated and so you don't have any other complications. Here are some of the things to consider:

Is Your Company Paying You Enough?

The first thing the lawyer will determine when they look at the severance package, how much longer you could possibly work, and what your potential earnings could be with the company, and determine if the company is giving you enough money. They will also look at the terms and conditions of the severance, and make a judgment if you should comply, counter a different package, or refuse the package.

Can They Legally Force You Out?  

If the company is discriminating against you because of your age or gender, or if they are trying to force you out and they can't legally, your lawyer will let you know if you have a case. Threatening the company with a lawsuit, or actually pursuing a lawsuit against them could be all that you need to get the company to cooperate with your counter offer for the severance.

Do You Still Want to Work?

Working for an employer that doesn't want you to be there, or that is trying to buy you out can be very stressful. If you don't think that you can feel comfortable being employed by your employer any longer, or if you don't want to work, you need to express your concerns to your lawyer and ask that they do everything possible to get you the money that you want, so you don't have to return to your position.

Having a lawyer to represent you is one of the best things that you can do to show your employer that you are serious about protecting yourself from their severance package, and their demands to get you out the door. Find an employment lawyer that specializes in working with people like you who are being forced out of their jobs because the employer doesn't want to pay a high salary, and get protection for your future. 

Contact an employer attorney for more information and assistance.