An Urbandale, Iowa employment contract is an agreement where the employer and employee each intend to legally bind the other to particular conditions in the work relationship. Contracts for employment in the state of Iowa are negotiable, which allows the parties to arrive at an agreement best suited to their work relationship. If conditions are met, the employment contract for a set amount 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 Iowa Employment Contracts

Terms that are included in the majority of employment contracts in Iowa include the job description, salary or compensation, length of employment (or if it at will) and grounds for termination or advancement. Contracts may 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.

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. Thirdly, information or work that is obtained or completed by an employee may be subject to confidentiality and non-compete clauses.

How Can an Urbandale Lawyer Help?

Lawyers in Urbandale who specialize in Iowa employment laws may assist you in determining what employment contracts contain. 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 end employment.