In Chatham, Massachusetts, an employment contract is agreement between an employer and employee which legally binds them to conditions specified in the work relationship. Most Massachusetts employment contracts can be negotiable since both parties benefit from a suitable agreement that is unique to their 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 Massachusetts Employment Contracts

An employment contract in Massachusetts will usually provide for the following terms: job position description, compensation, duration of employment period (or at-will), and grounds for promotion/termination. However, 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.

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. Also, 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 Chatham Lawyer Help?

A Chatham lawyer who specializes in the employment laws of Massachusetts 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 certain terms that will address your particular concerns as you enter or leave employment.