Service
Contract and Noncompete Review
Expert Guidance for Workplace Agreements in New York
Employment contracts and agreements can significantly impact your professional trajectory, financial security, and future career options. At Dolce Law PLLC, we provide skilled representation to employees throughout New York City and surrounding areas in all types of employment contract matters—from initial review and negotiation to enforcement and dispute resolution.
Our Employment Contract Services
We offer comprehensive representation for all types of employment agreements:
Employment Contract Review and Negotiation
Before signing any employment agreement, have it professionally reviewed to understand its implications and negotiate better terms. We help with:
- Offer letter review to identify problematic terms and negotiation opportunities
- Compensation structure analysis to ensure fair and transparent payment terms
- Benefits package evaluation to maximize your total compensation
- Job duties and expectations clarification to prevent future disputes
- Termination provisions review to protect your job security
- Work location and schedule terms to maintain appropriate flexibility
- Intellectual property provisions to protect your creative work
- Choice of law and venue provisions that could affect future legal actions
Noncompete and Restrictive Covenant Matters
Restrictive covenants can limit your future opportunities. We provide:
- Pre-signing review of non-compete and non-solicitation agreements
- Negotiation of reasonable limitations on scope, geography, and duration
- Assessment of enforceability under New York law
- Strategic guidance when considering job opportunities while under restrictions
- Defense against threatened enforcement of unreasonable restrictions
- Litigation representation in non-compete disputes
- Negotiation of releases from existing restrictive covenants
Non-Disclosure and Confidentiality Agreements
Understanding confidentiality obligations is crucial. We assist with:
- Scope of confidentiality review to understand what information is protected
- Duration analysis to determine how long obligations persist
- Permitted disclosure exceptions identification
- Separation of your knowledge from company confidential information
- Defense against improper confidentiality claims
- Trade secret disputes related to employment
Separation and Severance Agreements
When employment relationships end, we help secure favorable terms:
- Severance package negotiation to maximize financial compensation
- Benefits continuation terms to maintain health and retirement coverage
- References and employment verification provisions to protect your reputation
- Non-disparagement clauses that work in both directions
- Release of claims analysis to understand what rights you’re waiving
- Stock options and equity treatment upon separation
- Intellectual property rights clarification post-employment
- Return of property provisions that are reasonable and practical
New York Employment Contract Law
New York has specific laws and precedents affecting employment agreements:
- New York’s evolving stance on non-compete enforceability generally disfavors these restrictions
- “Employee Choice Doctrine” affecting forfeiture-for-competition provisions
- New York Labor Law Section 194-a prohibiting salary history inquiries
- New York’s recognition of implied contracts in certain circumstances
- New York’s stance on at-will employment and its exceptions
- Liquidated damages provisions and their enforceability under New York law
- New York’s protection of commissioned salespeople under Labor Law Section 191-c
Common Employment Contract Terms to Negotiate
Many employment contract terms are negotiable with the right approach:
Compensation Terms
- Base salary and regular increase provisions
- Bonus structures with clear, achievable metrics
- Commission plans with transparent calculation methods
- Equity compensation including vesting schedules and valuation
- Deferred compensation plans and retirement contributions
- Expense reimbursement policies and limitations
- Relocation assistance when changing locations
- Education and professional development funding
Job Security Provisions
- For-cause termination definitions that protect against arbitrary firing
- Progressive discipline requirements before termination
- Notice periods for employment changes or termination
- Severance guarantees if terminated without cause
- Change of control provisions protecting your position after acquisition
- Garden leave provisions providing paid non-work periods
- Job duties and expectations clearly defined to prevent scope creep
- Performance evaluation processes and criteria
Post-Employment Restrictions
- Non-compete scope, duration, and geography limitations
- Non-solicitation of customers reasonable restrictions
- Non-solicitation of employees appropriate limitations
- Confidentiality obligations post-employment
- Return of property requirements upon separation
- Intellectual property ownership of work created during employment
- Disparagement limitations after the relationship ends
- Social media and online presence restrictions
Why Choose Dolce Law PLLC For Your Employment Contract Matters?
Employment contracts require both legal expertise and strategic career thinking. At Dolce Law PLLC, we offer:
- Human rights perspective: We approach employment agreements with a focus on dignity and fairness
- Business acumen: We understand both the legal framework and business realities
- Strategic negotiation: We develop tailored strategies based on your specific goals and leverage
- Personalized attention: We provide focused guidance tailored to your unique situation
- Forward-thinking approach: We consider both immediate terms and long-term implications
- Plain language explanation: We help you understand complex legal provisions in clear terms
The Employment Contract Process
Our process for handling employment contract matters includes:
- Initial consultation: We discuss your situation, goals, and specific concerns
- Document review: We thoroughly analyze all contract documents and related materials
- Strategy development: We create a plan tailored to your priorities and leverage
- Negotiation or enforcement: We implement the strategy through appropriate channels
- Final review: We ensure all agreed terms are properly documented in final agreements
Contract Red Flags to Watch For
Be particularly cautious about these employment contract provisions:
- Overly broad non-compete clauses that could prevent future employment
- Indefinite or ambiguous confidentiality provisions without clear limitations
- One-sided non-disparagement clauses that only restrict you
- Arbitration requirements that waive your right to court proceedings
- Class action waivers preventing you from joining collective actions
- Discretionary bonus language giving employers complete control over payouts
- Automatic renewal provisions with narrow cancellation windows
- Unilateral modification clauses allowing employers to change terms at will
- Choice of law provisions selecting unfavorable jurisdictions
- Invention assignment provisions claiming ownership of all creative work
Frequently Asked Questions About Employment Contracts
Are employment contracts legally required in New York?
No. Employment in New York is presumed to be “at-will” unless modified by a contract. However, contracts can provide important protections and clarify expectations for both parties.
Can I negotiate my employment contract?
Yes. While employers often present contracts as standard or non-negotiable, most terms can be negotiated with the right approach. Even small companies often adjust terms for valued employees.
Are non-compete agreements enforceable in New York?
New York courts generally disfavor non-compete agreements but may enforce them if they are reasonable in time, scope, and geography, and protect legitimate business interests. Each case is fact-specific.
What happens if I breach my employment contract?
Potential consequences include litigation for damages, injunctive relief preventing certain activities, forfeiture of certain benefits, and potential reputation impact. The specific consequences depend on the nature of the breach and contract terms.
Should I have a lawyer review my employment agreement?
Yes. Employment agreements often contain complex legal provisions with significant long-term implications for your career. Professional review can identify issues and negotiation opportunities you might miss.
IWhether you’re considering a new employment agreement, facing a contractual dispute, or planning your exit strategy, timely legal advice is essential. Contact Dolce Law PLLC for a confidential consultation to discuss your situation and explore how we can help protect your interests.
Your employment contract shapes your professional future. We’ll help you secure favorable terms.
What clients say
“Your deep understanding of the law and meticulous attention to detail were truly remarkable. You patiently explained complex legal concepts in a way that was easily understandable, empowering me to make informed decisions. I am deeply grateful for the empathy and support you provided throughout the process. Your compassionate approach and genuine concern for my rights as a woman of color alleviated much of the stress and anxiety associated with my case.”
“I truly appreciate your guidance and support in navigating this situation. Your expertise and kindness have made a significant impact, and I’m very grateful for some of the confidence you’ve helped me regain.”
“You have been so attentive and graceful throughout my ordeal and I truly appreciate you. This has been a very difficult time for me… Thank you so much for handling my case with grace and care. I’m excited to breathe a little better now.”
“Thank you so much for your support throughout this process — you and your team have been truly excellent. I appreciate your expertise and continued guidance.”
Your work is our business
Employment laws are complex and ever-changing. You don’t have to navigate them alone. If you’re an employee dealing with a difficult situation at work, we’ll help you solve your problems and achieve your goals.
Don’t let another day cost you your rights.
Every moment matters in employment cases. Evidence disappears, memories fade, and legal deadlines approach quickly. Get answers about your situation with a free, confidential case evaluation with an experienced employment attorney.
