When you start a job, there’s a good chance your employer will request that you review and sign an employment contract. If they don’t, it’s a good idea to ask if they can provide you with one.
With an employment contract in place, you have a clear understanding of what to expect during your time as an employee. Also, it typically outlines what will happen in the event of your termination, such as your right to receive a severance package.
It’s important that both parties understand and agree to the terms and conditions of the contract. This goes a long way in preventing a breach in the future.
If you have reason to believe your employer breached your employment contract, there are a few things you should do:
- Talk to the HR department about the contract: With your employment contract in hand, consult with a member of the HR department to express your concerns. This may be all it takes to get back on track.
- Learn more about your legal rights: If your company isn’t willing to cooperate, it’s time to learn more about your legal rights for seeking compensation related to the breach. Most commonly, this means seeking compensatory damages. This gives you the benefits outlined in the contract, such as a previously agreed upon severance package.
- Make sure you’re doing your part: Your employer may have breached the contract, but it’s possible you could do the same. Carefully review the contract so that you don’t do anything that puts you in a bad light, such as taking some type of retaliatory action against your employer.
When you sign an employment contract, you assume that your employer will live up to the terms and conditions throughout your employment and through your termination (should it come to this).
If you run into an issue that you can’t resolve through negotiations and compromise, don’t hesitate to review the circumstances and determine how to protect your legal rights. You don’t want to miss out on compensation that’s due to you, regardless of the amount.
Visit our website and read our blog for more advice on what to do about a violation of your employment contract in New Jersey.
