Trusted Employment Contract Lawyers

Understanding Employment Contracts: How SK Legals Employment Contract Lawyers Can Help

Whether you’re starting a new job, renewing an employment contract, or dealing with termination, understanding your rights under an employment contract is essential. Employment contracts outline the expectations, rights, and responsibilities of both employers and employees. Navigating these agreements can be tricky without legal guidance, which is where employment contract lawyers come in.

At SK Legal, we specialize in employment law in Alberta, and our team of experienced lawyers is here to help you understand, negotiate, and enforce your employment contract, ensuring your rights are fully protected.

What Are Employment Contracts?

An employment contract is a legally binding agreement between an employer and an employee. It can either be written, verbal, or implied, though written contracts are the most enforceable form. These agreements cover key aspects of the employment relationship, including wages, hours, job duties, and benefits.

For employers, an employment contract helps manage expectations and protects the business from potential disputes. For employees, it offers security and clarity on important issues like salary, job responsibilities, and benefits. However, employment contracts can be complex, and signing without understanding the full implications can have long-term consequences.

The Importance of Employment Contract Lawyers

Why should you consult an employment contract lawyer? Simply put, employment contracts contain legal jargon and clauses that can be difficult to understand. A skilled employment contract lawyer will help you:

Review the terms of the contract to ensure they are fair and legal.
Negotiate better terms, such as higher wages, better benefits, or improved working conditions.
Identify any loopholes or clauses that may be detrimental to your rights, such as non-compete clauses or unreasonable termination provisions.
Ensure compliance with Alberta’s Employment Standards Code and Human Rights Act.

Whether you are an employee being asked to sign a new contract or an employer drafting one, having legal advice ensures that the contract is not only enforceable but also beneficial to both parties.

Common Elements of an Employment Contract

When you consult the employment contract lawyers at SK Legal, here are some of the key terms we’ll help you examine:

1. Job Description and Responsibilities

An employment contract should clearly outline the employee’s role, duties, and responsibilities. Vague job descriptions can lead to misunderstandings and disputes later. Ensure the job description matches the role you applied for and agreed upon.

2. Compensation

This section details the employee’s salary or hourly wage, as well as any bonuses, commission structures, or incentive pay. It’s important to confirm whether your wages align with industry standards and whether raises or bonuses are guaranteed or at the discretion of the employer.

3. Benefits

Many employment contracts include information about health insurance, retirement plans, vacation days, and other benefits. Make sure these are detailed and that you understand what you are entitled to.

4. Termination Clauses

Perhaps one of the most important sections, termination clauses dictate the conditions under which either party can end the employment relationship. This can include notice periods, severance pay, and grounds for dismissal.

5. Non-Compete and Non-Solicitation Clauses

Employers often include restrictive covenants to protect their business interests. A non-compete clause prevents you from working with a competitor for a certain period after leaving the company, while a non-solicitation clause prevents you from approaching the employer’s clients or employees. These clauses can limit your future employment opportunities, so they should be carefully reviewed.

6. Dispute Resolution

This section outlines how any disputes between the employer and employee will be handled, whether through mediation, arbitration, or litigation. Knowing your options for resolving disputes can save you from costly legal battles down the road.

Why Choose SK Legal’s Employment Contract Lawyers?

At SK Legal, we have a proven track record of assisting clients across Alberta in reviewing, negotiating, and enforcing employment contracts. Whether you’re starting a new job or facing a dispute, our team will ensure your rights are safeguarded and that you receive fair treatment under Alberta’s employment laws.

Our lawyers are dedicated to reducing the stress of navigating employment contracts. With us, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that every detail of your contract has been thoroughly reviewed and negotiated to your benefit.

When Should You Consult an Employment Contract Lawyer?

There are several key moments in your career when you should consider consulting an employment lawyer. These include:

Before signing a new employment contract: It’s always wise to have legal counsel review any contract before you sign, especially if you’re unsure about the terms.
When offered a severance package: If you’re facing termination and have been offered severance, an employment lawyer can help determine if the offer is fair and whether you’re entitled to more.
When your contract is revised: Employers sometimes revise contracts during employment. Ensure that any changes align with your rights and are not reducing your benefits or protections.
When facing termination: Whether you’re fired or laid off, an employment lawyer can help you understand your severance rights, and whether your dismissal was lawful.

Final Thoughts on Employment Contracts

Employment contracts are vital for establishing a fair working relationship between employers and employees. However, the complexities of employment law in Alberta make it critical to consult with a qualified employment contract lawyer. At SK Legal, we’ll guide you through every step of the process to ensure you fully understand the terms of your contract and your rights are protected.

What should I do before signing an employment contract?

Before signing, it’s crucial to have the contract reviewed by an employment lawyer. They can explain the terms and negotiate better conditions if necessary.

Can my employer change my contract without my consent?

No, any changes to an employment contract must be mutually agreed upon. If your employer changes the terms without your consent, it may be considered constructive dismissal.

What happens if I breach my employment contract?

Breaching an employment contract could result in termination or legal action. It’s important to understand your obligations under the contract before signing.

Is a verbal employment contract enforceable?

Yes, verbal contracts can be legally binding, but they are harder to enforce compared to written contracts. It’s best to have a written agreement to avoid disputes.

Can my employer include a non-compete clause in my contract?

Yes, but the non-compete clause must be reasonable in terms of duration and geographic location. Unreasonable clauses may not be enforceable in court.

What is severance pay, and am I entitled to it?

Severance pay is compensation given to employees when they are terminated without cause. Your entitlement depends on your contract, length of service, and Alberta’s employment laws.

What is considered wrongful dismissal?

Wrongful dismissal occurs when an employee is terminated without reasonable notice or severance pay, or when the dismissal is based on unjust grounds.

Can I negotiate the terms of my employment contract?

Yes, it’s possible to negotiate many aspects of an employment contract, including salary, benefits, and non-compete clauses.

Can my employer fire me without notice?

In Alberta, employers can fire employees without notice only if there is just cause, such as misconduct. Otherwise, reasonable notice or severance pay is required.

What should I do if I’ve been wrongfully dismissed?

If you believe you’ve been wrongfully dismissed, contact an employment lawyer immediately. They will help assess your case and advise you on the next steps to pursue compensation.
For any employment contract concerns, get in touch with SK Legal. Our employment contract lawyers are ready to help you secure your rights.

Trusted Employment Contract Lawyers in | SK Legal

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