Know What You're Giving Up
Upload your severance agreement or separation package. See exactly what rights you're waiving, which terms are negotiable, and what language to use when you push back.
A structured first pass before deciding if you need a lawyer · Free tier, no credit card · Your file is never stored
What Guard-Clause catches in severance agreements
Broad Release of All Claims
§4 — General Release of Claims
Most severance agreements require you to waive your right to sue the company for any reason — including discrimination, unpaid wages, and wrongful termination. The scope of the release is often negotiable.
Non-Disparagement with No Mutual Obligation
§7 — Non-Disparagement
You agree not to say anything negative about the company, but the company has no matching obligation. Your former manager can say whatever they want.
Extended Non-Compete After Separation
§8 — Restrictive Covenants
The severance may extend or reactivate a non-compete clause — restricting your job search for 6–24 months. This is often the most negotiable term in a severance.
Short Review Window Pressuring Quick Signing
§12 — Review Period
You may be given 7–21 days to review and sign. Under federal law (OWBPA), if you're over 40, you're entitled to at least 21 days. The deadline is often negotiable regardless of age.
They gave you a deadline. Take a breath first.
Understand what you're signing before the clock runs out.
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