From Preparation to Separation: A 10 Step Model for Effective Terminations

Presented by John M. Bagyi, Esq., SPHR, SHRM-SCP. This presentation will equip you with 10 essential steps to reduce potential legal exposure arising from employee terminations. John will outline practical, legally sound strategies that not only strengthen compliance and reduce organizational risk but also support broader business objectives. The session will highlight communication techniques that preserve dignity and promote a respectful employee experience throughout the separation process. Participants will learn how to approach termination decisions, navigate emotional dynamics, partner effectively with managers, and apply each of the 10 steps to ensure decisions are defensible, consistent, compliant, and aligned with organizational goals.

Recognized as one of the 500 Leading U.S. Corporate Employment Lawyers by Lawdragon, John counsels and represents employers on broad range of labor and employment matters. His practice is focused on assisting organizations in achieving and maintaining legal compliance while enhancing employee engagement and overall workplace productivity. He has served as a guest lecturer at Albany Law School, RPI and the University at Albany, and is a frequent speaker at national, regional, and state conferences. John also serves as the General Counsel to the New York State Society of Human Resource Management.

John has been recognized by Human Resource Executive magazine as one of 200 of the Nation’s Most Powerful Employment Attorneys and holds an AV Preeminent rating from Martindale-Hubbell. He is listed in New York Super Lawyers and The Best Lawyers in America, which has honored him as Albany Labor Law – Management "Lawyer of the Year”, Albany Litigation – Labor and Employment “Lawyer of the Year” and Albany Employment Law – Management “Lawyer of the Year”. In 2025, John was recognized as one of the Top 25 Super Lawyers in the Hudson Valley.

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