Do You Use A Template Document? If So, Make Sure It Is Working Optimally

A template document, such as for a severance agreement, can be a really good tool. When it is well-drafted, it can function as a checklist to make sure critical items are addressed, help ensure consistency in drafting, and save time. But, the best use of a template will involve customization and require you to think through standard language or provisions. To illustrate some of this, we will walk through some examples of good practices and common problems that might occur with a template severance agreement.

Start with making sure the template has good instructions for the intended audience. Instructions should address when the template should be used – is it for every separation that will have severance, do you have a separate template if someone is forty or older, or a group exit incentive is involved?