Palo Alto Executive Compensation Lawyer
Executive employees tend to be highly valued at their companies and receive compensation and contractual agreements that reflect that value. While these individuals may be in slightly more powerful positions than many other workers, executive employees must understand all of the implications of the various work agreements with an employer. Hiring an attorney can help place an employee on equal footing with an employer throughout negotiations. Executive compensation can become tricky in some circumstances because the Securities and Exchange Commission governs compensation, and there are rules regarding transparency and the form of compensation for executives. When negotiating employment terms or navigating unfortunate conflicts with an employer, you need to have a strong advocate on your side.
The Palo Alto executive compensation lawyers at the Costanzo Law Firm are here to help employees ensure that their employers are treating them fairly and properly compensating them for their hard work and dedication to their jobs. Call us today at 408-993-8493 to discuss your claim with one of our experienced Palo Alto employment law attorneys.
Contract Negotiations and Executive Compensation
Employment contracts detail the terms of an employee’s relationship to the company for which they work. In some cases, highly valued employees may be able to negotiate favorable terms that limit the circumstances under which their employer may terminate their position. This factor can differentiate an employee from those who work for the employer “at will.” In most cases, employees in California may lose their jobs for any lawful reason. This is not the case when a contract details the terms under which an employer may end the contract with the employee. It is in your best interest as the employee to include a “for cause” provision that provides specific and narrow terms for ending your position with the company. If the company chooses to end your employment, there will be language in the contract that works to your benefit, including severance terms.
The contract can also include various forms of compensation beyond the standard salary and benefits. For instance, car allowances, specified business travel accommodations, and signing bonuses might be included, along with many other possible terms. There are also terms that are less favorable for the employee which should be avoided when possible, such as arbitration clauses that require the employee to take any disputes to an inconvenient forum.
It is important to hire an attorney to review your contract and ensure that the agreement protects you. If you believe that your employer is in breach of a contract, contact an attorney. Your employer is obligated to abide by the terms of the contract.
Non-Competes and Trade Secrets
Non-compete agreements are a form of contract between an employer and employee that serve to protect the employer from an employee leaving and taking a position that competes with that employer. Non-competes also prevent an employee from starting a business in the same area as the company for which they work. Such agreements should be drafted in ways that protect the employee as well as the employer. For instance, there should be specific dates for the non-compete as it should not prevent an employee from working in the field at other employers and definitely. Also, the agreement should compensate the employee for his or her willingness to agree to the terms. In California, non-competes are generally not enforceable agreements. Employers still sometimes request that employees sign such agreements. If you have questions regarding a non-compete agreement, contact a Palo Alto employment law attorney.
Whistleblowing Cases
Sometimes employees witness their employer engaging in practices that violate state or federal laws. Other times, the employer might direct an employee to engage in such conduct. In these cases, employees are often fearful of retaliation at the hands of their employers if they report the illegal conduct. The law in California works to protect employees who suffer workplace retaliation when they report illegal conduct. If your employer is retaliating against you, speak to an attorney about your legal rights and options for protecting yourself.
Severance Packages
Severance agreements are often offered to employees when the company decides to terminate that individual. In many cases, these agreements request that an employee sign a document stating that they will waive certain legal actions and claims against the employer in exchange for benefits or compensation at the time when their employment with the company comes to an end. It is important to have legal counsel when deciding whether to sign such an agreement and to decide whether you are able to negotiate more favorable terms. Contact a Palo Alto employment law attorney to learn more about severance agreements and your rights as an employee.
Call the Costanzo Law Office Today With Questions About Executive Compensation in Palo Alto
At the Costanzo Law Office, our Palo Alto employment law attorneys are ready to help you protect your rights and ensure that you are treated fairly by your employer. We have experience with sophisticated executive employment law matters and are prepared to counsel you in all of your employment law needs. Call us today at 408-993-8493 to speak to a dedicated employment law attorney.
