In New Gloucester, Maine, an employment contract is agreement between an employer and employee which legally binds them to conditions stated in the work relationship. Maine contracts are typically negotiable since both employer and employee benefit from an agreement that is tailored to their specific work setting. An employment contract for a set period provides the employee with a guarantee of job security if the conditions are met, and it further allows employers some measure of direct control over employee productivity.

Common Terms in Maine Employment Contracts

An employment contract in Maine will normally provide for the following terms: job position description, compensation, duration of employment period (or at-will), and grounds for promotion/termination. Please note, however, that contracts can contain other less common clauses. First, for instance, an arbitration clause may require the parties to forgo the right to sue in the event of an employment dispute.

Additionally, a severance clause or "termination clause" outlines the process for ending the employment. Courts have held employers liable for wrongful termination when violating such clauses. Moreover, information or work that is obtained or completed by an employee may be subject to confidentiality and non-compete clauses.

How Can a New Gloucester Lawyer Help?

A New Gloucester lawyer who specializes in the employment laws of Maine can assist you in understanding what is contained in an employment contract. You may also get advice from a lawyer about fairness in the contract terms, and they will negotiate particular clauses that will meet your needs in beginning or ending employment.