Process of Drafting an Employment Contract in Deerfield

Employment agreements can clarify the relationship between an employer and their new hire. They can set the payment terms and even determine the length of time they spend at the company. They also provide all parties with clear obligations to each other. Unclear agreement terms can lead to conflict or even litigation.

The process of drafting an employment contract in Deerfield is complicated, and you should not take it on alone. A skilled employment attorney could help you prepare the document so it meets your needs and formalizes the terms you have made with the other party.

Select the Type of Agreement

Many different types of employment contracts are available for companies hiring new employees. Selecting the right format is the first step in the process of drafting a Deerfield employment contract.

Some agreements are fixed term, meaning a person is hired to work for a specific amount of time agreed upon in advance. This approach is common for someone working on a specific project with a set end date. Other contracts are for full-time employment indefinitely, which is how most agreements are structured.

Set the Terms

One of the most important aspects of agreements is the basic employment terms. These details must be worked out when hiring a person, whether they are under contract or not. This starts with clearly outlining how the employee is to be paid, whether hourly or with an annual salary. In addition to pay, it should spell out other benefits, like health insurance or paid time off.

The document should also outline the role and duties of the person hired. This sets expectations for both sides and clarifies what a worker is required to do once they begin in their new position.

Resolving Disputes

Contracts formalize the terms of a working relationship, but they are also crucial for selecting mechanisms for resolving disputes. The selection process starts with determining governing laws and jurisdiction. This choice matters since it decides what state law applies and where a lawsuit must be filed if litigation is necessary.

Often, the terms include alternative methods for addressing conflict outside litigation. This might include requiring mandatory arbitration or mediation of any disputes. The document could even identify a specific mediator.

Considering Confidentiality and Competition

Many companies demand some degree of secrecy regarding their employees’ work. For that reason, drafting a Deerfield employment contract might include a confidentiality agreement that outlines the information an employee is prohibited from sharing and identifies any consequences for doing so.

In addition to basic confidentiality agreements, a contract might include provisions designed to prevent disputes after an employee leaves. These could include non-solicitation agreements that prevent the employee from enticing customers to leave and follow them to their new employer.

Another possibility is a non-compete agreement. These contracts often include terms that prohibit an employee who leaves the company from joining or forming a competitor in the same industry. This restriction is limited in time and location.

Talk to an Attorney in Deerfield About the Process of Drafting an Employment Contract

The terms of these documents are critical, given that a single out-of-place word could radically alter the entire function of the agreement. To ensure the process of drafting an employment contract in Deerfield goes smoothly, you should speak with an experienced attorney. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.