Fired for no reason w/ a contract

[HeathGre]

What is the name of your state? NJ
I was let go from my job without good cause after being told I needed to change shifts or be laid off. After telling them I would accept the change of shift I was then told I couldn't have that shift. I had to take a night one. At which point I rebutted this was insane. I have a formal written employment agreement for my original shift and all excellent evaluations. Which I do have copies of. They did not care and I was told I was being laid off that day. No notice. I was offered 2-3weeks severance pay and lay off papers for unemployment. I was humiliated by being walked to my desk to pack with an escort and escorted out the door. I received the papers 3 days later than promised and they are not "lay off" papers but "termination" papers along with a contract they want me to sign if I want my severance pay and for them "not to fight unemployment benefits" in their words. In these papers they want signed it states I will not make any claims with any govt. agency. How would I even collect unemployment then? Should I hire an attorney?

 

[Some Random Guy]

You say you have an employment contract. Is it an actual contract, or is it a written employment offer? Does it include any contract length or termination clauses or guarantees which the employer has not fulfilled?

As for the termination agreement, this can be negotiated. Just say that you want the agreement clarified that you are not barred from seeking unemployment benefits, just as the person told you. If they're not trying to screw you, then it should be a simple change.

 

[pattytx]

Any "agreement" that includes a prohibition from you filing for unemployment benefits would not be enforceable.

 

[xylene]

Any "agreement" that includes a prohibition from you filing for unemployment benefits would not be enforceable.

And possibly, depending on what they are asking you to sign, a complete admission by them that you are eligible.

 

[HeathGre]

Answer

I live in NJ.
The Clause states specifically That I have not and will not commence a claim with any governmental agency whether local, state or federal.
Thank you for your assistance and knowledge.