In St. Paul, Minnesota, an employment contract is agreement between an employer and employee which legally binds them to conditions specified in the work relationship. Contracts for employment in the state of Minnesota are negotiable, which allows the parties to arrive at an agreement best suited to their work relationship. 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 Minnesota Employment Contracts

Minnesota employment contracts usually include many terms such as a description of the job, employment duration (generally at-will employment), compensation/benefits, and grounds for terminating. 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, termination or severance clauses detail the procedure for ending employment. Courts have held that when an employer violates these in firing an employee, the employee may sue for wrongful termination. Also, non-compete clauses and confidentiality clauses make the information or work obtained or completed by contract employees subject to certain rules.

How Can a St. Paul Lawyer Help?

A St. Paul lawyer who specializes in the employment laws of Minnesota 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.