What Employers Should Know When Drafting Employment Contracts

A carefully drafted employment agreement is critical in protecting an employer's interests. When employment disputes arise, they often hinge on the language and content of the employment agreement.

If the agreement is unclear and ambiguous, it will generally be interpreted in favour of the employee due to the vulnerability of the individual employee and the imbalance of power in the employment relationship. Although the specifics of an employment agreement will vary depending on the position, there are many standard provisions that should be included. Some of the key provisions an employer should consider incorporating include probationary periods, termination clauses and restrictive covenants.