Reduction in Force Considerations

Lately, more and more companies are unfortunately finding themselves in a situation where they need to lay off part of their workforce. This discussion outlines some of the high-level considerations to keep in mind as companies navigate this process, including whether to offer the impacted employees’ severance or other benefits like extended COBRA; whether the company should require employees to sign a release in connection with severance offer, and if there is any risk of violating the ADEA, WARN Act, or other protective state or federal statutes.

The panelists also address extending the post-termination period during which an employee might be eligible to exercise vested stock options, and the PR ramifications of layoffs. 

Speakers:
Megan Monson, Partner, Employee Benefits & Executive Compensation
Julie Levinson Werner, Partner, Employment Counseling & Litigation
Jessica Kriegsfeld, Associate, Employee Benefits & Executive Compensation