An employment contract is a legally binding document that most employers take great lengths to draft and create. Reputable businesses seek the help of an employment law solicitor in Portsmouth, or other local area, to make sure that the contract is mutually beneficial for both parties (employer and employee). But what happens if you sign it, and then have regrets; or, you get a better offer from another company? Can you get out of it? The answer is, maybe.
First, it’s never a good idea to sign anything if you don’t truly understand it. Ideally, you should seek your own legal advice before signing an employment contract (or any other contract for that matter).
Getting out of your contract will depend on what is stated in the contract, and if there are any ‘escape’ clauses. Here are a few examples:
* Terms of your employment: Does the contract state that you are to be employed for a specific period of time? If you signed on to work for the company for a year, but you want to leave after 6 months, you may have a pay a penalty fee in order to get out of the contract.
* Non-compete clause: Even if you do pay the penalty, you may not be able to work for a direct competitor for a certain period of time. For example, switching to another financial institution down the street may be prohibited by the contract. You may have to wait, say 3 or 6 months before doing so.
* Relocating: If there is no relocate clause in the contract, and your office has decided to move to another city, you may be able to get out of your contract if there was no mobility clause.
It’s important to read employment contracts carefully so you don’t run into legal problems later. An employment law solicitor can help protect your rights. Click here for more details.
