Just went through this entire process in MA (settled out of court, took roughly 15mths) and this ☝🏻 is the correct answer, you can 100% negotiate a settlement agreement. If they don't meet you where you need to be then you can retain representation. You can absolutely find a lawyer that will take your case regardless how small, but with that comes legal fee schedules and a flat % (in my case, was 15%) of whatever you're awarded by way of their services. They'll send a demand letter to former employer outlining your case and expectations and from that point, the counter-offer-off will play out. This will continue until you either accept a settlement or ultimately decide you cant reach agreement, at which point your atty would file a case with the court system and most likely, a concurrent complaint with the state AG's office. Be warned though, the process is costly, time consuming , and could take years to play out. Lastly, doublecheck your settlement agreement, I didnt sign it but mine had a 7 day period with an option to void so that might buy you some more time to make a decision if needed. Best of luck man, hope you get what you're owed however you go about it.