Can I Give a Notice of Leaving Goldman Sachs During Paternity Leave?

Congratulations on your upcoming paternity leave! The decision to provide notice while on paternity leave can be complex, especially at a major organization like Goldman Sachs. Here are key points to consider:

Understanding Paternity Leave at Goldman Sachs

Firstly, congratulations on the approaching paternity leave. At Goldman Sachs, paternity leave typically falls under their comprehensive human resources policies. However, the legal and practical ramifications of giving notice during this period can vary based on specific circumstances.

When you give notice, especially if your leave period overlaps with the notice period, you run the risk of not receiving the benefits associated with your leave. For instance, if you provide a four-week notice and you still have four weeks of paternity leave left, Goldman Sachs may discontinue your paternity leave benefits.

Legal Flexibility and Employee Rights

Employers generally have the right to terminate employment immediately when an employee provides notice during paternity leave. This is especially true if the employee does not return to work upon the expiration of their leave. Such termination policies are often outlined in the employment contract.

If you are considering resigning during paternity leave, it's crucial to review your specific employment contract and the company's policies. These documents can clarify the conditions under which you can and cannot resign and what entitlements you retain or forfeit.

Strategic Considerations for Resignation

Based on the type of paternity leave you are taking, your actions can significantly impact your leave benefits and your relationship with the company.

Short-term Paternity Leave

If you are taking a short-term paternity leave, such as two weeks, you are generally free to resign at any point during this period. The key is to ensure that your resignation does not overlap with your leave period to the extent possible. This strategy minimizes the disruption to your paternity leave and maximizes your benefits.

Extended Paternity Leave

For extended paternity leave, such as the shared leave option, the situation is more nuanced. In such cases, your employer may only be liable to pay you for the notice period specified in your resignation. This means that after you provide your notice, you will only receive payment for the duration of the notice period. The remainder of your leave time is not typically protected.

If you are in this situation, it may be beneficial to utilize the remaining time of your paternity leave as a period of reflection. This can give you the opportunity to carefully consider your decision and come back with a well-thought-out resignation when you return to work.

Depending on your position, your employer might even place you on gardening leave during your notice period, meaning you will be paid but not required to perform any work. This arrangement can provide some financial security while you make the decision to leave.

Conclusion

Deciding to give notice during paternity leave at Goldman Sachs is a significant decision that requires careful consideration. It's important to review your employment contract and company policies to understand your rights and obligations. If you are still unsure, consulting with a legal professional or a trusted HR representative can provide valuable guidance.

Good luck with your new family and future endeavors!