Beckley, employment contracts between an employer and employee legally bind them to specific conditions in their work relationship. Most employment contracts in West Virginia are negotiable because both parties often find it beneficial to arrive on an unique agreement that best suits the circumstances. Employees with an employment contract specified a time of employment are provided with a guarantee of job security if conditions of the contract are met, and it allows their managers to have some type of control over productivity.

Common Terms in West Virginia Employment Contracts

An employment contract in West Virginia will typically 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 example, an arbitration clause might require the parties to forgo the right to sue in the event of an employment dispute.

Second, 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 Beckley Lawyer Help?

A Beckley lawyer who specializes in the employment laws of West Virginia may assist you in understanding what is contained in an employment contract. A lawyer can also lend counsel about what is fair to you in the contract, and can negotiate specific terms that will address your individual concerns as you enter or leave employment.