Boston Employment Contract Attorneys
Development, Negotiation & Litigation for Contract Matters
In Massachusetts, verbal employment agreements can be enforced. It is advisable for both the employer and the employee, however, to have a written agreement that sets forth the terms and conditions of the employment relationship. An employment contract attorney can help draft these agreements to ensure their legality.
Understanding Your Rights and Protections
Employment contracts are not just legal documents; they are vital agreements that define your rights and responsibilities in the workplace. At Davis & Davis, P.C., we believe that every employee should have a clear understanding of their rights under their employment contract. Whether you are a new hire negotiating your first contract or a seasoned employee reviewing terms for renewal, knowing your rights can empower you to make informed decisions.
Here are some key rights and protections you should be aware of:
- Right to Fair Compensation: Ensure that your contract outlines your salary, bonuses, and any other compensation clearly.
- Job Security: Understand the terms regarding termination and what constitutes just cause for dismissal.
- Confidentiality and Non-Compete Clauses: Know how these clauses may affect your future employment opportunities.
- Workplace Rights: Familiarize yourself with your rights related to harassment, discrimination, and workplace safety.
- Benefits and Leave: Confirm that your contract specifies your entitlements to health benefits, vacation, and sick leave.
Our experienced employment contract attorneys in Boston at Davis & Davis, P.C. are here to guide you through the complexities of employment contracts, ensuring that you fully understand your rights and are protected throughout your employment journey. Don’t leave your future to chance—contact us for a consultation!
What is an At-Will Employee?
Most employees do not have a written employment agreement. These employees are called at-will employees, which means that they can be fired for any reason at all, even unjust or unfair reasons – though there are a select number of statutes and common laws that carve out exceptions to the at-will doctrine.
As a general rule of thumb, the more experienced and skilled the employee, the more likely that the employee can negotiate to have a written employment contract that prohibits capricious, arbitrary, or unfair terminations.
Common Employment Contract Mistakes to Avoid
Entering into an employment contract is a significant step for both employers and employees. However, many individuals overlook critical details that can lead to misunderstandings or disputes down the line. At Davis & Davis, P.C., we want to ensure that you are fully informed about common pitfalls in employment contracts so you can avoid them.
Here are some frequent mistakes to watch out for:
- Vague Language: Contracts should be clear and specific. Ambiguities can lead to misinterpretations and disputes.
- Ignoring State Laws: Employment laws vary by state. Ensure your contract complies with Massachusetts regulations to avoid legal issues.
- Omitting Termination Clauses: Clearly defined termination provisions protect both parties and provide a roadmap for ending the employment relationship.
- Not Including Confidentiality Agreements: Protecting sensitive company information is crucial. Ensure your contract includes appropriate confidentiality clauses.
- Neglecting to Review Benefits: Be sure to outline all benefits clearly, including health insurance, retirement plans, and bonuses, to avoid confusion later.
By being aware of these common mistakes, you can take proactive steps to ensure your employment contract is comprehensive and protects your interests. Our experienced attorneys at Davis & Davis, P.C. are here to guide you through the process, helping you draft, negotiate, or review your employment contract to avoid these pitfalls and secure your rights.
Our Employment Contract Lawyer in Boston
If an employee is fortunate enough to bargain for a written employment agreement, he or she should consider retaining legal counsel to negotiate and/or review the terms. A Boston employment contract attorney at Davis & Davis, P.C. can help you ensure that your employment contract reflects your best interests and protects your rights.
Contact an employment contract attorney in Boston by calling (978) 228-2262. We serve clients in Suffolk, Middlesex, and Essex counties.
The Importance of Well-Drafted Employment Contracts & Termination Provisions
All good things come to an end, which is why the termination provision in a written employment agreement is arguably the most important provision in the contract. This provision is usually called a “just cause” or “for cause” provision.
Employees should advocate for language that is highly detailed and identifies with particularity those situations that would trigger the “for cause” provision.
Employers, on the other hand, usually want to retain some discretion and want broader language, including a “catch-all” provision. There are different types of employment contracts.
Areas of employment contract law that remain a hotbed of controversy and litigation are:
- Non-compete agreements
- Non-solicitation agreements
- Non-disclosure agreements
- And confidentiality agreements
If you are looking for employment contract lawyers near you, call us at (978) 228-2262 and get in touch with an attorney at Davis & Davis, P.C.