Legal Question in Employment Law in Pennsylvania

Age discrimination and contracts

I have worked for a company for 4 years and I was layed off yesterday (I was informed that it was a perminent lay off). I was told it was due to economic conditons of the company which I believe to be true. I am in the first one to be layed off in my department and I am the oldest.I am 58 years old. During my ''lay off'' meeting I was given a paper to sign whic stated basically that I would receive 2 weeks severance pay unless I signed this paper in which case I would receive 2 more weeks for a total of 4.The paper pretty much stated that I would persue no legal recourse.

I have two questions. 1. If I sign this paper am I leaglly bound to not seek legal relief and 2.Given that my work recod with this company is excellent and I have no discplinary warnings, and my expertise in my job is as good or better then younger men not layed off, do I have legal recourse?


Asked on 10/29/03, 7:57 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
James Bailey MacElree Harvey, Ltd.

Re: Age discrimination and contracts

These agreements can be binding if the employer complies with applicable law, which includes the Older Worker Benefit Protection Act, among other laws. You should consult with an attorney to review the agreement and discuss your case.

Disclaimer: This posting does not and is not intended to constitute legal advice. It is not confidential, nor is it privileged, and it does not create an attorney-client relationship. Please consult with an attorney for advice specific to the facts of your case.

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Answered on 10/29/03, 8:00 am


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