If you’re about to enter into a new contract or your terms of employment have changed, we can advise you by explaining the terms and helping you to negotiate so you find yourself in the best possible position

  • When you enter into a new contract or your existing contract is changed, it’s very important you understand the meaning of all the terms and how they affect you.
  • Whether your contract is written or oral, there will be express and implied terms, which we will identify and explain.
  • We can guide you through your contract step by step, making all the terms clear and ensuring it does not limit your legal rights, to put you in the strongest possible position.

Do you have any questions about your employment contract? Are you entering into a new contract? Have you been asked to change your terms of employment? It’s important you know where you can find your terms of employment and that you’re aware there are two types of employment terms: express and implied.

What is an employment contract?

An employment contract is a legal document that outlines the terms and conditions of employment between an employee and an employer. It typically includes details such as job description, salary, hours of work, holiday entitlement, and any other benefits. The contract serves as a reference point for both parties and sets out their respective rights and obligations.

What is a service agreement in employment?

A service agreement in employment is a contract between an employee and an employer that outlines the terms and conditions of the employee’s service. It typically includes details such as job duties, responsibilities, compensation, benefits, and the length of employment. A service agreement is usually entered into at the beginning of the employment relationship and sets out the basis for the ongoing relationship between the employee and employer.

Where can I find my terms of employment?

The first place to look for your terms of employment would be your employment contract. Your contract of employment establishes the respective rights, responsibilities and duties of your employer and you. Before signing an employment contract, you should be certain you understand the meaning and consequences of each term. You may be able to negotiate the terms of your employment before signing a contract; however, once you have signed the contract you are bound by the terms.

Although many people assume an employment contract will contain all of the terms of employment, this is not necessarily the case. Not everyone has a written employment contract; some have an oral contract, which make the terms harder to prove. However, it’s important to know that regardless of your position or the number of hours you work each week, if you are not given a written contract, you are entitled to a written statement of your main employment terms. You should receive this within two months of starting work.

Express and implied terms

  • What are express terms of employment?

Express terms are terms that have been specifically written or orally agreed between you and your employer.

  • What are implied terms of employment?

Implied terms are not written, but are implied into most contracts of employment. Implied terms may be implied by common law or statute.

Such terms may be implied through the custom and practice of an organisation where, over a period of time, the meaning has clearly been agreed or is well-known and longstanding, thus becoming part of the contract.

How Moore Barlow can help

Our specialist employment solicitors have a vast amount of experience in dealing with implied terms. This varies from business to business and is very circumstantial. It is especially important that you understand all the terms of your employment.

Our team will take the time to work through the contract with you step by step, to ensure you understand each term. We can help you by ensuring the contract does not seek to limit any of your legal rights, to put you in the best position possible when you enter into the contract.

We have offices in Southampton, London, Guildford, Lymington, Richmond and Woking and we offer specialist support to clients nationwide.