Severance is never a requirement of any employer unless you have a signed employment agreement stating otherwise, or, it is a written policy of the company.
In Florida, which is an at-will employment state, an employer can fire you for any reason or no reason at all, as long as it's not illegal (e.g., discrimination).
Yes, an employer can terminate your employment before you complete the PIP if they believe there is no improvement or if other factors arise. Employees in California do not have any statutory or common law right to complete a PIP because all employees in California are “at-will employees.”
The type of evidence you will need depends on the type of wrongful termination case you have. Evidence can be in the form of your testimony, witness statements, “me too” victims, documents, communications, and recordings. Evidence of a particular pattern, practice, and policy may also be relevant.
In Florida, which is an at-will employment state, an employer can fire you for any reason or no reason at all, as long as it's not illegal (e.g., discrimination).
Generally, no. In Florida, employment is “at will”, meaning that either the employer or the employee can end the employment relationship at any time without reason unless you have an employment contract or union agreement governing the terms of your employment or work for a government employer.
The statute of limitations varies. For wrongful termination premised on a breach of contract, it's generally five years in Florida. Other wrongful termination claims may have shorter limitations, generally between two and four years.
Do I have a wrongful termination claim in Florida? Florida law does not recognize “wrongful termination” unless it violates a contractual right or federal, state, or local laws.
While not required by law in Florida, providing a termination letter or document to the employee is advisable to help protect the employer in case of legal action.
Keep it friendly. Don't hint that you may sue or are looking to make their lives difficult. Respond to the severance email or reach out to HR directly saying you'd like to discuss the severance agreement. Come prepared with research.