We saw this coming didn’t we? If you follow the Tar Heels like we do, you saw what happened the past week with Coach Hubert Davis.  If you’ve ever gone through a job separation you may be able to relate to what he went through: Your supervisor tells you to write down everything you’re working on, once friendly and familial atmosphere is now cool, meetings that you would otherwise attend you aren’t invited to.

The news finally hit that Coach Hubert Davis, a loyal, hard-working employee of the state since 2012, was let go. We can relate on a number of levels, and especially as a die hard Tar Heel fan and alum. So, Coach, if you’re out there, let’s talk about what’s next for you, or really any employee that is faced with the difficult news that it’s time to move on:

– Take a deep breath. Hubert, you gave us two legendary wins no other coach will ever duplicate – beating Duke at Home on Coach K’s last night and beating them again in the Final Four.  Losing a job after decades of loyal service and huge wings can be an emotional roller coaster.  Although not legal advice, as we are also husbands, fathers and been through our own job transitions before, our advice is to take a deep breath. We’ll get through this. Now’s the time to lean into your support network and don’t let your emotions get the better of you.
– Preservation Statement – Memories fade, so if you think that something is fishy about your termination, write down as much as you can about what happened. If you now see that what happened six months ago now doesn’t seem right, put together a timeline. If there’s policies/procedures that weren’t followed, write down the details as much as you can about the when, where, and how.
– Severance or release – Hubert, like most employees in today’s corporate settings, is probably going to be offered a severance package.  As emotions are running high and there’s a millions things going on in life, e.g. do I have to relocate, what’s my next job, financial concerns, we’re here for you.  We routinely help employees review and negotiate severance offers and contract buyouts. In addition, we also review whether or not there’s a wrongful termination or other related employment claim.  A word to other employees debating on hiring an attorney to review a severance agreement but have mixed feelings: you will not be judged for asking for more money.  Do not feel bad about having an attorney review any release. In fact, having an attorney review your matter is just a reflection of your own good judgment.

– Deadlines – You need to contact an attorney as soon as possible because there are specific deadlines for responding. I understand you’re facing many life questions, such as relocation and more training, but EEOC, DOL and even internal grievance procedures have deadlines.

Coach – thank you for the years of service. You will get through this. And if you cannot win on one court, you can always try another.

– Corey B. Atkins c/o ’08
– Brian Elston c/o ’03