Why You Need a Severance Package Attorney: Don't Negotiate Alone
This week, not one but two clients came to me making the same mistake: "I want to try negotiating my severance package on my own first." One thought they'd reach out to me if things didn't go well. The other came to me after they'd managed to squeeze out a little something extra on their own, thinking that's when professional help would make the most sense.
Here's the reality: By the time they reached out to me, my hands were mostly tied.
Here's why: once you put a number on the table, you can't go higher than that. If you tell your employer you're hoping for 8 weeks of severance, and they counter with 6 weeks, you cannot suddenly decide you actually want 12 weeks. You've already established your ceiling. Even if I craft the most persuasive follow-up email in the world, we're now negotiating within the narrow range you've already created.
This approach is like performing surgery on yourself because you want to "try it first" before calling a doctor. Whether you get nothing or achieve a small win on your own, the damage to your negotiating position is already done.
The Misconception That's Costing You Thousands
Many employees think they don't need a severance package attorney or employment consultant for what seems like a simple conversation. They believe hiring an employment attorney is "too aggressive" when it's really just a strategic consultation. Your company already has lawyers on speed dial for these situations. Why shouldn't you?
When you reach out to me as an employment attorney specializing in severance packages, I don't storm into your employer's office with threats. Instead, I work entirely behind the scenes, as your workplace advocate crafting every word strategically.
Why Timing Matters More Than You Think
Once you've made your initial ask and received a "no" or a lowball offer, your negotiating position is significantly weakened. Your employer now knows:
The ceiling you're hoping for (never a good starting position)
That you're willing to negotiate without proper legal guidance (believe me, they can tell from how you worded your email, even if you used AI)
That you are an easy pushover
This is like showing your cards in poker before the betting even starts.
The Real Cost of Going It Alone
When clients come to me after they've already made their initial attempt, I hear the same regrets:
"I didn't know how much to ask for"
"They pressured me into agreeing to a low offer"
"I had no idea I could ask for more benefits"
The small investment in professional guidance upfront often pays for itself many times over in the final severance package. Remember, this is not just about money: there are MANY additional terms to negotiate, from healthcare coverage to a mutual non-disparagement clause to payment terms. You need an employment attorney for all of this!
Why You Need a Workplace Expert
As your employment consultant and workplace advocate, I bring years of experience in severance negotiations. I understand the legal landscape, know what's reasonable to ask for, and can identify leverage you likely haven't considered. Unlike other employment attorneys near me who may take a percentage-based approach, I work differently.
How My Process Works
Step 1: The Consultation We start with a thorough evaluation of your situation. I assess your leverage, review your severance offer if you have one, and identify opportunities you likely haven't considered. Most importantly, I guide you on the exact next steps to take.
Step 2: Strategic Ghostwriting I craft your negotiation emails for you, which includes appropriate legal considerations that protect your interests. Every word is carefully chosen to maximize your outcome while maintaining a professional, collaborative tone. You send these emails under your own name; I remain completely invisible to your employer.
Step 3: Ongoing Guidance Throughout the process, I'm your behind-the-scenes strategist, helping you navigate each response and counteroffer until we reach the best possible outcome. It's not over until the document is signed and you have been paid. If they try to pull any surprises later on, I am still there for you.
This Isn't About Being Aggressive – It's About Being Smart
Some people worry that involving a severance package attorney will make them seem difficult or litigious. But remember: as your workplace advocate, I work behind the scenes. Your employer never knows I'm involved. From their perspective, you're simply a well-informed employee who knows how to communicate professionally and strategically. Even if they suspect you have an employment attorney, that shows them you are serious.
There's nothing aggressive about being prepared and articulate. In fact, companies often respect employees who approach negotiations thoughtfully and professionally.
Working With Clients Nationwide
Because I work entirely behind the scenes as your ghostwriter and strategic advisor, I can help clients anywhere in the country. Geography doesn't matter when you're the one hitting "send" from your own email account.
This remote approach actually works in your favor: no local attorney visits that might tip off your employer, no geographic limitations on finding the right expertise, and the same strategic advantage regardless of where you're located.
My Fee Structure: Aligned With Your Success
Unlike many employment attorneys near me who take a percentage of your severance package, I charge a reasonable hourly rate that's typically far less than what other lawyers charge. You keep every dollar of your severance package; my investment in your success is simply my time and expertise as your employment consultant.
Your severance package negotiation happens once. You don't get a do-over. While your company has lawyers crafting their strategy, you shouldn't go in armed with only hope and whatever advice you found online that’s not tailored to your specific situation.
Don't let your employer's legal team take advantage of you.
Ready to Level the Playing Field?
If you're facing a severance situation, don't wait until you've already shown your cards. Let's start with a consultation to evaluate your situation and map out the smartest path forward.