The previous two columns focused on independent contractor agreements. This month, we focus on employment contracts. Usually, employment is “at will”—at any time, an employee can quit, or an employer can sever the employee. Most employees do not have written contracts for a guaranteed time period. While a good employee manual can provide many detailed policies, the manual should state that it is not a contract.

Usually, companies reserve written contracts for executives and key employees; they are personal service contracts for the employee’s labor. Sometimes, an executive will have special talent or connections that give them leverage when negotiating. Negotiation should occur before the relationship begins.

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