Disney has announced plans for large layoffs in the coming months. The entertainment company plans to lay off a total of 7,000 employees, beginning in April and continuing throughout early summer. Disney’s layoffs plan is part of a multi-billion dollar cost-cutting strategy to manage spending amidst a period of industry turmoil. Although most of these layoffs will occur in the US, Canadian employees facing a similar situation should be aware of their entitlements in the event of a layoff.

Amounting to approximately 3% of its global workforce, Disney’s layoffs represent a continuing trend by large employers to streamline their operations. Employees face the repercussions of these efforts, left without employment in a saturated job market.

It is important to note that a saturated job market or depressed economy may increase a dismissed employees severance entitlement. An employer cannot point to tough financial circumstances as a justification for offering reduced severance packages to dismissed employees. Just the opposite, in fact, employees entering a competitive job market or depressed economy may be able to use those factors to leverage a lengthier notice period.

Before signing any severance package, employees that have been laid off should be sure to have it reviewed by an experienced employment lawyer. It can be very difficult for dismissed employees to know whether a severance package is fair, and to ensure that they are not leaving any money on the table.

To better understand your employment rights and explore the viability of a claim, we encourage employees to seek legal advice. Equally, we encourage employers to speak with a lawyer to understand their rights and obligations, or any other employment concerns. We at Whitten & Lublin are happy to provide insight and advice into your specific circumstances. If you are looking for employment lawyers and would like more information about what Whitten & Lublin can do for you, please contact us online or by phone at (416) 640-2667 today.

Author – Rachel Patten