Getting more out of your settlement agreement
- Get quick response
- Call directly: 023-303 46 98
- Specialist in VSO pathways
Receive settlement agreement?
Receiving a VSO? Don’t sign anything without first knowing your rights. We will negotiate a better package on your behalf, such as higher compensation, later termination date, work release or removal of a non-competition clause. With a team of six specialized employment lawyers, we guide employees in VSO processes every day, from initial assessment to final signing.
Are you an employer and have questions about a settlement agreement? See how we can help you further here.
Why legal advice is indispensable
The employer has almost always had legal support before offering a settlement agreement, so it is important that you seek the same. This ensures a level playing field. Without expert guidance, there is a risk of wrongful dismissal, underpayment of severance pay, loss of unemployment rights due to incorrect wording, or restrictive covenants (such as a non-competition clause) that could hurt subsequent steps in your career. Therefore, enlist the help of an attorney to ensure that your rights are safeguarded.
Our guidance on settlement agreements
We assess your settlement agreement in terms of content and strategy. You will gain clear insight into your legal position and whether the proposed settlement is appropriate.
If not, we will negotiate better terms on your behalf. This could include the amount of compensation, wording towards UWV, termination date, work release, bonus or option rights, and the removal or limitation of restrictive clauses.
Our guidance is aimed at creating peace and certainty so that you can make an informed decision.
Specialist for senior positions and key roles
With a team of six specialized employment lawyers, we have managed hundreds of dismissal cases, including for directors, executives, MT members and key employees.
We understand the legal and administrative context in which these processes take place. That means an eye for reputation, relationships and future prospects, in addition to the legal details.
Contact us directly
Want to know where you stand and what opportunities you have?
- Contact us for an intake interview
- Get your situation legally assessed
- Get peace of mind and space for the future with a good severance package
Common scenarios for a settlement agreement
A settlement agreement is used in practice in various situations, such as:
- Reorganization or position elimination – when positions are eliminated and employer and employee part ways through mutual agreement.
- Employment conflict – when cooperation structurally breaks down and continuation of the employment relationship is no longer realistic.
- Poor performance – when improvement programs have not achieved the desired result and parties together want to end the employment relationship.
- Long-term disability – when reintegration no longer offers prospects and termination after two years of illness becomes relevant.
- Termination by mutual agreement – when employee and employer each conclude from their own interests that termination is the best solution.
Frequently asked questions about the settlement agreement
How long do I have a reflection period after signing a VSO?
After signing, you have 14 days of legal reflection time. If there is no cooling-off period clause in your VSO, 3 weeks automatically applies. Therefore, always have your VSO checked before signing.
How does the first step work?
Call us at 023-303 46 98 and present your situation. We listen, ask the right questions and give you a first impression of your position. That way you quickly know where you stand and what we can do for you.
Will I lose my unemployment benefits if I sign a VSO?
Not if the VSO is worded correctly. It should clearly state that the dismissal is not at your request and that there is no urgent reason. Incorrect wording can be risky, though. This also applies in case of illness. Therefore, have your situation assessed.
Can I negotiate the terms of my VSO?
Yes, almost always. The most commonly negotiated items are severance pay, termination date, work release, non-competition clause and bonus rights.
What is the difference between a VSO and a termination agreement?
They are two names for the same document. A settlement agreement (VSO) and a termination agreement are both used to terminate an employment contract by mutual agreement. The term VSO is most commonly used in a legal context.
How soon can I get an appointment?
We usually respond within 24 hours. In case of urgency – for example, if your signing period is about to expire – please contact us immediately by phone at 023-303 46 98. We will then schedule an intake as soon as possible.
What if I don't want to sign the VSO?
You are never obliged to sign a VSO. If you do not agree, the employer must take another dismissal route through the UWV or the subdistrict court. We advise you on the risks and opportunities of both routes.
Advice on your vso?
- Personal intake
- Legal review by specialist
- Certainty of a good arrangement
Case study
Support process settlement agreement
“When it became clear that my role as an MT member was going to disappear, I found that understandable from a business perspective but it did lead to all sorts of questions for me personally. So I quickly sought legal assistance because I knew it was better to have someone look into it. I also did not want to linger too long in negativity but to move forward with my career and therefore felt it was important to seek external help.
Wessel van der Lans Advocaten approached this exactly as I had hoped: businesslike, careful and with an eye for the personal side of such a process. In the end, they took over the negotiations from me and were able to realize a good package, better than I had hoped for. That made it possible to close this period in a good way and look forward again.”
Legal certainty with a settlement agreement
A settlement agreement can be an elegant solution, provided it is carefully drafted. Our lawyers ensure clarity and certainty, so you can move forward with confidence.
Need help with a settlement agreement?
Contact us for advice, drafting, or reviewing a VSO.
View our other areas of expertise as well
Employment law questions? We'll help you move forward
Are you facing an important decision regarding personnel, employment conditions, or a reorganization? Discuss your situation with us and receive clear legal advice you can act on immediately.