A Petaluma, California employment contract is an agreement where the employer and employee each intend to legally bind the other to specificed conditions in the work relationship. Many California employment contracts can be negotiable since both parties benefit from a suitable agreement that is unique to their circumstances. If conditions are met, the employment contract for a set period of time will provide the employee with a guarantee of job security. It also gives employees some degree of control directly over employee productivity.

Common Terms in California Employment Contracts

California employment contracts typically include many terms such as a description of the job, employment duration (generally at-will employment), compensation/benefits, and grounds for terminating. Nonetheless, there are also other, less common, clauses that are worthy of notice. First, an arbitration clause requires parties to forego their rights to access the courts for any 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. Thirdly, work that is completed by an employee, or information obtained by them are covered in clauses known as confidentiality clauses and non-compete clauses.

How Can a Petaluma Lawyer Help?

A Petaluma lawyer who specializes in the employment laws of California can assist you in understanding what is contained in an employment contract. Also, a lawyer will advise you about what you think is fair in the employment contract, and they can negotiate the specifics when you enter or leave employment.