The Importance of Employment Contracts

Our offer to you: a free audit of your employment contracts and handbook.

Not only is a properly drafted employment agreement required by law but it is the first line of defence for employers against potential legal claims.

Whilst most employers are aware of their legal obligations to provide their employees with a written employment agreement, there are still some employers who are neglecting to do so. Not only is this a breach of their statutory duties but it also escalates the risk of employee problems and legal claims.

We have seen a plethora of employment contracts appearing in offices across the UK which take the form of a basic template contract drafted by a third party with no legal training or simple contracts drafted by the employer themselves. The problem with these contracts is that, more often than not, they do not comply with the law. More worrying, even when these agreements comply with legislation, they often leave crucial areas unclear or fail to provide protection for the employer.

While we understand employers’ need to keep costs to a minimum during the start-up phase of a business, it is crucial to consider the ultimate cost of not investing in comprehensive employment agreements and policies and procedures. Non-compliant agreements are a breeding ground for employee relationship problems and workplace grievances which can be time consuming and often expensive to put right. Litigation is often the answer for the employee and, even if the employer resolves the problem, he is still likely to have incurred hefty legal fees, stress and a drop in productivity.

The contract is the cornerstone of the relationship between employer and employee setting out the specific employee duties and responsibilities, so that an employee knows exactly what is expected of them.

Our employment team is happy to discuss the particular needs of your business and to assist with the tailoring of an employment agreement to best meet those needs. Likewise our Legal Earth Protection Package can assist with the implementation of policies and procedures to minimise risk and maximise efficiency and thus contribute to the success if your business.

For a free audit of your current contracts or to discuss the Legal Earth Protection Package call Christina on 0800 320 2400.