Employment Contracts and Service Agreements

Many employers don’t realise that you can establish a contract of employment with an individual simply by having them do work for you, and paying them in return.  A contract of employment does not have to be in writing, and its terms can simply be established by a course of conduct between employer and employee.

For more information, or to speak to an employment law expert today about your employment contracts and service agreements, call Gorvins Solicitors on 0343 507 5151, e-mail employmentteam@gorvins.com or fill in our online enquiry form.

Gorvins Approach to Employment Contracts

Whilst we appreciate the sense of keeping certain aspects of an employment relationship as informal as possible, the risk associated with not committing at least certain key terms to writing, far outweighs the benefit of “keeping things simple”.

Not committing employment terms to writing could mean an employee lawfully leaving your employment without giving notice, and then poaching all your business and staff.  Similarly, without written terms dealing with things like holidays, sick pay, deductions from pay etc. could mean that you, as employer, has far less freedom than you think in relation to your staff.

When drafting employment contracts, one size does not necessarily fit all. So we will work with you to ensure that you have employment documentation that is fit for purpose; containing all the detail you need to reflect your priorities for all levels of staff, and ensuring that it is drafted in plain common sense terms.

Changes to Terms in Existing Contracts

Even if you have existing contracts, it may be necessary to make changes from time to time, whether to reflect changes within the workplace or to keep up to date with changing legislation. However, making lawful changes to existing contracts may not be as simple as issuing a new contract and expecting it to be agreed.

Imposing new contract terms can carry the risk of constructive dismissal claims or simply that the new terms will not be effective.  Should you need advice about changing your existing employment terms, we can help and assist with any necessary consultation and implementation process.  We will ensure this process is as hassle and stress free as possible, for both you and the affected staff.

How Can Gorvins Help?

Our experienced solicitors will handle all your legal issues as quickly and efficiently as possible, allowing you to concentrate on what is most important, running your business.

If you need assistance with employment contracts or changes to your service agreements, contact Gorvins Solicitors on 0345 507 5151, e-mail employmentteam@gorvins.com or fill in our online enquiry form and we will be in touch.