Houston, TX asked in Contracts and Employment Law for Florida

Q: Laid off employee forced to sign severance agreement same day. What is legal recourse after signing under duress

Employer insisted I sign agreement on the day I was laid off to receive severance. I had no time to think about it and was stressed over the lay off. I've been told by others I should have had atleast 21 days to review the agreement; and even if I signed it, I should have had time to revoke it. None of this information was in the letter or advised to me by the employer. The employer did not let me leave with a copy of the contract, even though I asked for a copy. They said it would be sent certified mail. They said the last pay check would be on the normal pay period and the severance will be sent within 30 days. Please advise.

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2 Lawyer Answers
Alberto Naranjo
PREMIUM
Alberto Naranjo
Answered
  • Miami Lakes, FL
  • Licensed in Florida

A: This is situation in which you really need to invest time with an attorney to review. Yes, generally if something is signed under duress, you can revoke it later but your most likely going to need to get an attorney involved and quickly. Did they offer you money? Do you have a case against them? Why do you want to revoke?

1 user found this answer helpful

Mitchell Feldman
PREMIUM
Mitchell Feldman
Answered
  • Tampa, FL
  • Licensed in Florida

A: THe agreement may be void or voidable, but you may have no entitlement to any severance, as Florida does not provide a legal right to severance. Have the agreement reviewed with counsel and discuss the facts which lead to the loss of your job.

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