Parkersburg, employment contracts between an employer and employee legally bind them to particular conditions in their work relationship. In West Virginia, many employment contracts are negotiable to enable both parties to arrive at an unique agreement suitable for the circumstances. 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 West Virginia Employment Contracts

West Virginia employment contracts normally include many terms such as a description of the job, employment duration (generally at-will employment), compensation/benefits, and grounds for terminating. Contracts might also contain less commonly used clauses. First, arbitration clauses require parties to give up their rights to sue in court for any type of employment dispute.

Also, the contract can contain a termination clause, also known as a "severance clause". Courts have held that employers who violate these clauses when firing a person may be sued for wrongful termination. Moreover, confidentiality and non-compete clauses make any information obtained or work completed by an employee under contract subject to specific rules.

How Can a Parkersburg Lawyer Help?

Parkersburg has many lawyers specializing in West Virginia employment law who may help you understand what the terms of the employment contract are. An attorney will also counsel you in obtaining what is fair to you in the contract terms, and they can help negotiate agreements addressing your needs as you begin or terminate employment.