After 4 1/2 yrs with a company, I was called in yesterday a.m.

How much were you offered?

Yes I am.

I am in the middle of composing an answer.

it will take a few more minutes.

Leaving aside the issue of age discrimination for a moment your legal right is to receive reasonable notice or pay in lieu of notice.

Generally, in determining what is reasonable notice Courts look at several factors including the length of time you worked for the employer, your age, your position, the likelihood of finding new employment etc.

At the high end, if you were in a managerial position, the Court would likely order one month's notice or pay in lieu of notice for each year of employment. If you were not in a managerial position the Court would order somewhat less.

But if this is about your age then that is illegal and a breach of our Human Rights Code.

For these reasons it is wise to sit down, face to face ,with an employment lawyer.

The lawyer will review the facts and consider whether the lawyer should write a letter demanding a higher level of pay in lieu of notice or whether you should file a complaint with the Human Rights Tribunal.

You can contact the Law Society and use their Lawyer Referral Service. You will be given the name of a lawyer and can consult with the lawyer and the first half hour will be free.

The number is:

1-800-268-8326 or 416-947-3330 (within the GTA)

You cannot accept any offer without getting legal advice so don't let the bully you.

If you accept you will be asked to sign a release giving up your right to sue or complain.

The release could be upheld in Court.

It depends on the facts but it's not at all wise to sign it just in case a Court does uphold it.