Hey Fellas,

I'm in a bit of a bind. I've attempted to get legal help, but the expedited nature made this impossible.

Disclaimer: I am NOT seeking legal advice here. I am simply asking for a different perspective, and possible suggestions from those who have had similar experiences.

Background: Moved across Canada for a position as a Software Developer, on my own dime. Last Friday, I had completed the last of my major tasks for the project and we were ready to move on.

I walked into work on Monday, to a termination "without cause" and a half decent severance, but not enough given the circumstances. The following issues arose:

  • I ask what spurred this, they respond with "That's confidential"
  • They require I sign a release to get my severance
  • I see that they have been snooping around my old work phone (thank you google, and a few other apps that track session data)
  • I have to move back home, because Employment Insurance will not cover my basic expenses and shipping all my stuff will be expensive.

I'll need to negotiate a better severance. Is there anyway I can guarantee that I receive the following, at the very least, and will asking jeopardize my current offer?

I need:

  • An increased severance pay out
  • Partial return flight covered, as they terminated me knowing I had planned a vacation
  • Rights to use my work on the project in my portfolio
  • A positive reference/letter of recommendation (This one is crucial)
  • Accrued Bonus

Are these requests unreasonable?

I'm meeting with them tomorrow afternoon to hand over the release papers, but I'll need to negotiate. How should I go about doing this?