Most employment contracts are lengthy, complex documents packed with specialized legal language. The numerous articles, clauses, subclauses and exceptions can make it nearly impossible for even the most intelligent nonlawyer to grasp what he or she is really being asked to sign.
Protect Yourself When Considering an Employment Contract
If your responsibilities and earning potential are substantial enough for either you or your employer to require an employment contract, you should take the sensible action and contact an experienced attorney to:
Closely review the entire employment contract, in order to advise you on points and likely interpretations you might not otherwise recognize; or
Advise you on how to negotiate — or negotiate for you — areas that are heavily in the employer's best interest, but not in yours;
Consult an Attorney Who Will Negotiate in Your Best Interest
Our attorneys' vast employment law experience includes extensive contract review work for employees. They have negotiated all types of employment contracts and know how to protect you against misleading language and implied promises that may not come true.
The major issues that can require negotiation in an employment contract include language that:
Appears to protect the employee against arbitrary termination for a period of time, but may not be specific or inclusive enough to provide this security
Describes the conditions or requirements for incentive payouts, which may provide the illusion of higher earning potential but be extremely difficult to achieve
If you are an executive, doctor or other professional with questions about an employment contract, contact Gillespie, Rozen & Watsky before you make a major legal commitment by signing this important document.