How to draft an employment contract
Author: Greg Chambers, Osborne Clarke
Summary
Click on any of the hyperlinks to go to more detailed guidance below.
- When drafting an employment contract, decide what is appropriate for your organisation and the employees concerned.
- Be aware that an employment contract can be formed whether or not there is a written agreement.
- Recognise the advantage of written employment terms.
- Comply with the legal obligation to provide a written statement of employment particulars.
- Decide whether or not to merge the written statement and employment contract into one document.
- Take care when drafting variation clauses, including mobility clauses, and be aware that they may not be enforceable.
- Where a collective agreement is to be incorporated into employees' contracts, include an express clause in the contract to this effect.
- Where different employment terms apply during the probationary period, make this clear in the written contract.
- Consider the requirements of the anti-bribery and pensions auto-enrolment provisions when drafting contracts.
- Where necessary, include clauses aimed at protecting your business after employees leave.
- Be aware that clauses that undermine statutory rights will not be enforceable.
- Include an express requirement in the contract to comply with rules, policies and procedures.