In Townsend, 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. Employment contracts specifying a term of employment provide employees with some measure of job security if conditions are satisfied. They further permit the employer to directly control employee productivity to some degree.

Common Terms in Massachusetts Employment Contracts

The majority of employment contracts in the state of Massachusetts include the following: salary or wages, job descriptions, duration of employment (if any - most are at will), and termination/advancement grounds. 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.

Furthermore, 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 Townsend Lawyer Help?

A Townsend 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 particular terms that will address your specific concerns as you enter or leave employment.