Employment Rights Verbal Agreements: What You Need to Know
When it comes to employment agreements, most people think of a written contract that outlines the terms and conditions of employment. However, not all employment agreements are written. In fact, some employment agreements may be verbal. While verbal agreements are legally binding, they can be difficult to prove if a dispute arises. In this article, we’ll explore what you need to know about employment rights verbal agreements.
What is a Verbal Agreement?
A verbal agreement is an agreement that is made orally between two parties, without any written documentation. Verbal agreements may occur in various situations, including employment agreements. For example, an employer may verbally offer a candidate a job, and the candidate may verbally accept the offer. In such a case, a verbal agreement is formed.
Are Verbal Agreements Legally Binding?
Verbal agreements are just as legally binding as written agreements. Therefore, if an employer and employee make a verbal agreement, they are both legally bound to fulfill the terms of the agreement. However, the challenge with verbal agreements is that it can be difficult to prove what was agreed upon if a dispute arises. This is because there is no written documentation to refer to.
What are Employment Rights Verbal Agreements?
Employment rights verbal agreements are agreements made between an employer and employee that concern the employee’s rights in the workplace. These agreements may cover issues such as working hours, pay, benefits, and job responsibilities. For example, an employer may verbally agree to provide an employee with a certain salary, or to give the employee a certain number of days off per year.
What Should You Do if You Have a Verbal Agreement with Your Employer?
If you have a verbal agreement with your employer, it is important to keep a record of the details of the agreement. This can include notes about what was discussed, the date of the agreement, and any witnesses who were present. Having a record of the agreement can help you to prove the terms of the agreement if a dispute arises.
It is also a good idea to follow up with your employer in writing, outlining the terms of the agreement. This can provide you with additional evidence of the agreement, and can help to prevent any misunderstandings. If your employer agrees to the terms outlined in your email or letter, this can be considered a confirmation of the verbal agreement.
In conclusion, employment rights verbal agreements are legally binding, just like written agreements. However, they can be more challenging to prove if a dispute arises. Therefore, it is important to keep a record of any verbal agreements, and to follow up with your employer in writing to confirm the terms of the agreement. By doing so, you can help to protect your rights in the workplace.
