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Our services
Process
Our legal methodology begins with a forensic review of all employment documents, including the original offer letter, any amendments, and the employer's severance proposal. We analyze key components such as base salary continuation, prorated bonus eligibility, accelerated vesting of equity, and COBRA benefits subsidies. Leveraging our knowledge of statutes like the Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification (WARN) Act and state-specific wage payment laws, we build a negotiation strategy aimed at maximizing your separation terms. A typical case involves 2-3 structured negotiation rounds, with listed attorneys securing improved packages in approximately 70% of engagements prior to litigation. For related professions, review our insights on Severance Pay For Project Managers.
At a Glance
| Parameter | Reference Value |
|---|---|
| Typical Case Review Timeline | 1-3 business days |
| Common Negotiation Duration | 2-4 weeks |
| Key Document Analysis | Offer Letter to Severance Agreement |
| Primary Legal Focus | Compensation & Release Terms |
Local Considerations — USA
Severance law practice varies significantly across U.S. regions, impacting accountants differently. In financial hubs like New York, cases often involve intricate deferred compensation and non-compete clauses in severance agreements. In tech-centric areas such as San Francisco, equity and IPO-related vesting are frequent negotiation points. Our national team adapts its approach based on local jurisdiction, the specific industry of the accounting firm or corporate employer, and prevailing judicial interpretations of employment contracts. This regional expertise is critical for clients in markets like Chicago, where both corporate and firm employment structures are common.
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Standards & Compliance
- Federal WARN Act (29 U.S.C. §§ 2101-2109)
- State-Specific Wage Payment Laws (e.g., NY Labor Law § 191)
- Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) for Benefit Plans
- Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA) for Waivers
Frequently Asked Questions
What is typically included in a severance package for an accountant?
A comprehensive package for an accountant generally includes continued base salary, payment for accrued but unused PTO, a prorated or full annual bonus, extended health benefits via COBRA subsidy, and often outplacement services. For senior roles, accelerated vesting of equity or retention bonuses may also be negotiated.
How long do I have to review and sign a severance agreement?
Federal law, specifically the Older Workers Benefit Protection Act (OWBPA), provides a minimum of 21 days to review a severance agreement (45 days if part of a group termination). After signing, you have a 7-day revocation period. State laws may provide additional time.
Can I negotiate a severance agreement after I've been terminated?
Yes. While leverage may shift post-termination, the severance offer is typically presented as a proposed agreement. Listed attorneys regularly negotiate improved terms after termination, focusing on the value of a full release of claims from the employee to the employer.
How much does severance counsel for accountants cost in the USA?
Legal fees are typically structured on a flat-project or hourly basis, depending on case complexity. A standard review and negotiation for a mid-level accountant may range from $2,500 to $7,500. For senior executives with complex equity, the range is higher. We provide a specific fee quote after an initial case assessment.