LLU 19.2
Employment Reference Releases

Employers are faced with a dilemma regarding how much information to release about former employees in light of today’s litigious climate. Many employers refuse to give any information beyond the basics. But this practice can penalize good employees. Below is an employment reference release that may help solve the problem. If this reference release form is approved by your board, a signed form would allow an exception to your general reference policy. 

Employment Reference Release

I acknowledge that I have been informed that it is __________ School’s general policy to disclose in response to a prospective employer’s request only the following information about current or former employees: (1) dates of employment, (2) descriptions of the jobs performed, and (3) salary or wage rates. (This list can be modified to fit your school’s practices.)

By signing this release, I am voluntarily requesting that __________ School depart from this general policy in responding to reference requests from any prospective employers who may be considering me for employment. I authorize __________ School to disclose to such prospective employers any employment-related information that it, in its sole discretion and judgment, may determine is appropriate to disclose, including any personal comments, evaluations, or assessments that __________ School may have about my performance or behavior as an employee.

In exchange for __________ School’s agreement to depart from its general policy and to disclose additional employment-related information pursuant to my request, I agree to release and discharge __________ School and its successors, employees, officers, and directors from all claims, liabilities, and causes of action, known or unknown, fixed or contingent, that arise from or that are in any manner connected to __________ School’s disclosure of employment-related information to prospective employers. This release includes, but is not limited to, claims of defamation, libel, slander, negligence, or interference with contract or profession.

I acknowledge that I have carefully read and fully understood the provisions of this release. I further acknowledge that I was given the opportunity to consult with an attorney or any other individual of my choosing before signing this release and that I have decided to sign this release voluntarily and without coercion or duress by any person.

This release sets forth the entire agreement between __________ School and me, and I acknowledge that I have not relied upon any representation or statement, written or oral, not set forth in this document.

Printed Name ______________________________________________     Date _____________

Signature __________________________________________________