In Topsham, Maine, an employment contract is agreement between an employer and employee which legally binds them to conditions specified in the work relationship. Maine contracts are mostly negotiable since both employer and employee benefit from an agreement that is tailored to their particular work setting. An employment contract for a set term provides the employee with a guarantee of job security if the conditions are met, and it also allows employers some measure of direct control over employee productivity.

Common Terms in Maine Employment Contracts

An employment contract in Maine will typically provide for the following terms: job position description, compensation, duration of employment period (or at-will), and grounds for promotion/termination. Some clauses are less common but still worthy of being noted. First, the contract might include an arbitration clause which requires that parties forgo going to court over an employment dispute.

Furthermore, 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. Third, 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 Topsham Lawyer Help?

Topsham has many lawyers specializing in Maine employment law who can help you understand what the terms of the employment contract are. Also, a lawyer will advise you about what you think is fair in the employment contract, and they can negotiate the details when you enter or leave employment.