Illinois is an employment-at-will state. While most employees do not have a written employment agreement with their company, some businesses offer certain professionals and executives employment and compensation terms that both parties agree should be in writing.We work on behalf of both individuals and businesses to draft thorough pre-employment agreements and, when the work relationship ends, comprehensive severance agreements.

 

 

Executive Employment Agreements

At Utreras Law Offices, we understand that negotiating a pre-employment contract is about bringing the parties together to ensure a mutually agreeable employment relationship. As a result, it is imperative that such an agreement provide for more than just the salary amount. It should also contain specific provisions governing the terms of employment and other contingencies in the relationship.

 

Every employment relationship is unique, and we work to make sure that you feel comfortable that the agreement you are signing protects you and your interests.

Severance Agreements

We can also assist you in the event you are ending an employment relationship. In Illinois, companies are not required to provide any severance to employees that are terminated, regardless of reason. However, many companies may wish to offer a severance as a means of securing a release of future claims from an employee against it.

 

Regardless of the circumstances surrounding the end-of-employment relationship, if you are a business who wishes to offer a severance, or an employee who has been offered one, you should have an experienced employment attorney review the terms to ensure its legality and identify any potential issues of concern.

Non-Compete & Non-Solicitation Agreements

Our attorneys are also experienced in drafting and reviewing non-compete and non-solicitation agreements. A non-compete agreement prohibits a former employee from working for a competitor, and a non-solicitation agreement prevents former employees from soliciting clients with whom they worked by virtue of the previous employment arrangement.

 

Illinois courts recognize the right of employers to request and seek these restrictive covenant agreements from their employees. But, they must be reasonable in time and geography, otherwise they may be unenforceable.

 

Regardless of whether you are an employee or a business, you should consult with an attorney before entering into any such agreements to ensure that such agreement is drafted properly, is legally enforceable, and protects your interests.