A friend of mine got let go in a downsize/management change situation. She was offered a severance package but one of the terms of the package is that she is available for consulting and answering questions. I understand that it is a severance package but is that legal to dictate that you have to be available to help thru transition?

Severance packages aren't mandatory. They can put any legal condition on them.

(07-23-2014 01:59 PM)ark30inf Wrote:  Severance packages aren't mandatory. They can put any legal condition on them.

But what if you get another job? Job hunting etc. How can you be at their beck and call. Not saying you are not correct just tough

(07-23-2014 02:13 PM)klake87 Wrote:  

(07-23-2014 01:59 PM)ark30inf Wrote:  Severance packages aren't mandatory. They can put any legal condition on them.

But what if you get another job? Job hunting etc. How can you be at their beck and call. Not saying you are not correct just tough

Its just another contracted obligation in exchange for the money.

(07-23-2014 01:59 PM)ark30inf Wrote:  Severance packages aren't mandatory. They can put any legal condition on them.

Not sure if its quite that simple. The conditions still have to comply under state and local employment laws.

I'm curious. Did they specify how many hours of consulting time? Or how for how long your friend needs to be available?

(07-23-2014 05:17 PM)niuguy Wrote:  

(07-23-2014 01:59 PM)ark30inf Wrote:  Severance packages aren't mandatory. They can put any legal condition on them.

Not sure if its quite that simple. The conditions still have to comply under state and local employment laws.

I'm curious. Did they specify how many hours of consulting time? Or how for how long your friend needs to be available?

Which is why I said legal condition.

They don't have to offer severance at all

(07-23-2014 05:18 PM)ark30inf Wrote:  Which is why I said legal condition.

Well, what you meant wasn't translated well on the internet. I read it as any condition they want that legally the employee would have to conform to.

Anyway, don't take it personally.

I dont know the specifics. but she has to be available for quesyions and issues