Many employers and employees choose to utilize an employment contract. A contract is an agreement between parties that provides the rules and guidelines of employment. Employment contracts can be beneficial for both parties and offer reassurance that employers and employees understand the basis for employment. A knowledgeable attorney will help you draft or review an employment contract before you sign the document.
Employment Contracts
Wisconsin is an employment-at-will state. This means that the employer or employee may terminate employment at any time and for any reason. For that reason, employment contracts are particularly important in our state. Without an employment contract, either party could end employment at any time and for any reason. A contract provides stability for both the employer and employee. However, once a contract is in place, you may find the need to make changes.
Benefits of Employment Contracts
There are many benefits to employment contracts for both employers and employees. Employees will know that they have a job they can rely on for at least the duration of the contract period. Employers know that they have an employee they can depend on for a long period of time. This allows employers to put energy and time into training. Employment contracts often offer some crucial benefits that are appealing to employees. Employers may secure some promises from employees, such as non-disclosure and non-compete clauses.
Complexities of Employment Contracts
Employment contracts may be extremely complex. They often include many various clauses that employees must review prior to signing. It is in the best interest of an employee to have their attorney review the document before they agree to it. In some cases, an employee is able to request some changes or modifications to the document. Once both parties sign the agreement, it is a legal contract and is in place for the duration of time as provided in the document.
Can You Renegotiate an Employment Contract?
There are times when one party or the other may wish to renegotiate the terms of an employment contract. Either party may request a renegotiation of contract terms. However, both parties must agree to make changes, or the original contract will remain in place until it comes to an end. If you wish to renegotiate a contract, you should prepare to provide the reasons for the request along with documentation to prove your side of the issue. If you are unhappy with one or more of the terms of the agreement, you may need to provide alternatives along with the reason why you feel the changes are necessary. If parties do not agree to the changes, the current contract stands until the date it expires or unless one party does not abide by the original terms.
Tips for Employment Contract Negotiations
It is advisable to seek legal counsel to review the terms of a contract before you sign it. If you wish to renegotiate the contract, you should gather documentation and details that bolster your position in order to begin a renegotiation. If you are presented with a modified contract, be sure to take your time by reviewing the document with help from your attorney. You need to make sure that the terms of the contract are favorable and will not present problems now or in the future.
Employment contracts are essential, yet they can be challenging for both parties. To find out more about employment contracts, contact our legal firm, Moen Sheehan Meyer, Ltd., at (608) 784-8310 or online to schedule a consultation.