Why Do I Need an Illinois Severance and Separation Lawyer?
Signing a separation agreement is a major legal decision that can impact your financial stability and future career for years to come. While these documents may seem standard, they are often drafted by corporate counsel to prioritize the employer's interests while limiting your rights. Partnering with an experienced attorney ensures that you aren’t leaving money on the table or unknowingly agreeing to restrictive terms that could prevent you from finding new work.
- Protecting your legal rights — Many agreements include broad "release of claims" clauses that waive your right to sue for wrongful termination, discrimination, or unpaid wages. We review these waivers to ensure you are receiving adequate compensation in exchange for the rights you are giving up.
- Negotiating maximum compensation — Severance pay is rarely set in stone, and initial offers are often lower than what an employer is willing to pay. We leverage our knowledge of Illinois employment law to negotiate for increased pay, extended health benefits, and bonuses you have already earned.
- Neutralizing restrictive covenants — Hidden deep within separation agreements are often non-compete or non-solicitation clauses that can bar you from working in your industry. Our lawyers work to strike or narrow these terms so you can transition to your next role without legal interference.
- Ensuring post-employment benefits — Beyond a simple check, we address critical details such as COBRA benefits, outplacement services, and the proper characterization of your exit. These factors are essential for securing unemployment benefits and maintaining your financial health during your transition.
- Safeguarding your professional reputation — We negotiate for mutual non-disparagement clauses and agreed-upon references to ensure your former employer doesn't hinder your future job search. This ensures that you leave the company with your professional integrity fully intact.
Don’t risk your future by signing an unfair agreement. Contact Favaro & Gorman, Ltd. today to have an Illinois severance and separation lawyer review your contract and fight for the terms you deserve.
Why Choose a Favaro & Gorman Severance and Separation Attorney?
Facing a "take it or leave it" separation agreement from an employer's legal team is a high-pressure situation you shouldn't navigate alone. At Favaro & Gorman, Ltd., we bring over 35 years of dedicated employment law experience to shift the power dynamic back in your favor. We do more than just review paperwork; we provide a strategic shield to ensure your transition includes the full compensation and legal protections you deserve for your next chapter.
Decades of employee-focused experience
Since the late 1980s, our boutique firm has focused specifically on protecting the rights of individual workers. We understand the nuances of Illinois employment law and use that deep historical knowledge to anticipate employer tactics and secure superior outcomes.
Aggressive and relentless advocacy
We are known for our tenacious approach in both state and federal courts. Whether we are negotiating quietly behind the scenes or advocating for you in a formal setting, we pursue your interests with a level of rigor that big-box firms often reserve only for corporate clients.
Comprehensive contract evaluation
We meticulously analyze every aspect of your agreement, from bonus payouts and healthcare continuations to "release of claims" clauses. Our goal is to ensure you aren't unknowingly waiving your right to pursue legitimate claims for discrimination, harassment, or unpaid wages.
Proven track record of success
With thousands of cases litigated and millions recovered for our clients, our reputation precedes us. Employers in Illinois know that when Favaro & Gorman is involved, the agreement must be fair, transparent, and legally sound.
Personalized, compassionate guidance
We understand that losing a job is more than a financial transaction; it's a major life event. Our attorneys provide the steady, professional support you need to make informed decisions with confidence and peace of mind during a stressful time.
Your severance agreement is the final word on your past employment and the foundation of your future career. Contact a Favaro & Gorman Illinois severance and separation lawyer today to ensure your exit is handled with the expertise and respect you deserve.
What Your Illinois Severance Package Should Include
An effective separation agreement should address more than just a lump sum payment. At Favaro & Gorman, Ltd., we look beyond the initial offer to ensure every earned benefit is accounted for and protected. Our experienced legal team advocates for a comprehensive package that addresses your immediate financial needs while securing your professional future. We specialize in identifying overlooked compensation and restrictive terms that could impact your career long after you have moved on.
- Accrued compensation — This includes not just your base salary, but all earned yet unpaid bonuses, commissions, and accrued vacation time required by the Illinois Wage Payment and Collection Act.
- Health insurance continuity — Negotiating for the employer to cover COBRA premiums for a set period ensures you maintain coverage without the sudden financial burden of full premium costs.
- Equity and stock options — A strong package clarifies the vesting status of your shares and provides a reasonable window to exercise options before they expire.
- Neutral references and non-disparagement — Securing a "neutral reference" agreement prevents a former employer from sabotaging your future job prospects during background checks.
- Outplacement services — Many high-level agreements include professional career coaching or resume services to help bridge the gap to your next role.
Before you sign any document that limits your future, speak with a skilled Illinois severance agreement attorney. Contact Favaro & Gorman today to ensure your package reflects the full value of your service and protects your right to work.
Navigating Illinois Severance Agreement Deadlines and the Legal Review Period
Time is of the essence when you are presented with a separation agreement. While federal laws like the ADEA and OWBPA provide 21 to 45 days for employees aged 40 or older, Illinois law provides additional layers of protection that often apply to all workers. At Favaro & Gorman, Ltd., we ensure your agreement complies with strict state mandates, preventing employers from rushing you into an unfair deal.
- Illinois Workplace Transparency Act (IWTA) mandates — Under the IWTA, if a settlement or separation agreement contains confidentiality or non-disparagement clauses regarding unlawful employment practices, Illinois law requires that you be given at least 21 days to consider the agreement and a 7-day period to revoke your signature.
- The Illinois Freedom to Work Act — If your severance package includes a non-compete or non-solicitation agreement, Illinois law requires that you be given at least 14 days to review the document. Furthermore, these restrictive covenants are generally unenforceable in Illinois if you do not meet specific salary thresholds ($75,000 for non-competes).
- "Separate Consideration" for confidentiality — As of 2026, Illinois law requires employers to provide "separate consideration" (additional money or benefits) specifically in exchange for a promise of confidentiality. We ensure that your employer isn't trying to bundle these rights without paying you the extra value the law requires.
- Managing the negotiation timeline — Attempting to negotiate on your own can lead to delays that put the original offer at risk. Our Favaro & Gorman Illinois severance and separation lawyers handle all communications with your employer to keep the process moving efficiently within these legal windows.
- Illinois Wage Payment and Collection Act — We ensure your agreement doesn't illegally "waive" your right to final compensation. In Illinois, you must receive all earned wages, commissions, and accrued vacation pay by your next regularly scheduled payday, regardless of whether you sign a severance deal.
Do not feel pressured to sign an agreement on the spot, as you are legally entitled to a review period. Contact an experienced Illinois severance agreement attorney immediately to protect your rights and ensure you are making a fully informed decision within your legal timeframe.
What Our Clients Say About Our Illinois Sexual Harassment Representation
Take Control of Your Career Transition with Favaro & Gorman, Ltd.
Your future is too important to leave to chance or a one-sided agreement. Contact Favaro & Gorman, Ltd. today to speak with a dedicated Illinois severance and separation lawyer who will prioritize your interests and protect your livelihood. Let us handle the negotiations so you can move forward with the compensation, dignity, and legal freedom you deserve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Understanding exit agreements is easier with the right information. Our Illinois severance and separation lawyers offer these FAQs to clarify your rights and legal protections. For personalized advice, contact Favaro & Gorman, Ltd. to discuss your specific situation.
