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Contracts & Handbooks

Drafting Contracts and Employee Handbooks - Tailored HR Legal Advice.

Contracts and Handbooks: Protect Your Business with Expertly Drafted Documents.


Ensure Your Employment Contracts and Handbooks Work for You

Employment contracts and staff handbooks are the backbone of any successful workplace. They set clear expectations, define legal obligations, and help avoid disputes. Without these essential documents—or with poorly drafted ones—your business could face costly legal claims, operational confusion, and a lack of employee trust.

At My Law Solicitors, we provide expert advice and bespoke drafting services for employment contracts and staff handbooks. Whether you need documents tailored to your industry, updates to reflect current laws, or guidance on managing your workforce effectively, our dedicated team is here to help.

Why not call or email us today for a quick no-obligation quote?
Happy business owner shaking hands with their solicitor, symbolising successful collaboration on drafting contracts and handbooks.

Frequently Asked Questions.

Employment contracts are legally binding agreements that define the terms and conditions of employment between your company and your employees.

They establish clear expectations, outline rights and responsibilities, and provide legal protection for both parties. Having well-drafted contracts helps prevent misunderstandings and disputes, ensuring a harmonious working relationship.

An employment contract should encompass:

  • Job Title and Description: Clearly define the role and duties.​

  • Salary and Benefits: Specify compensation, bonuses, and any additional perks.​

  • Working Hours: Detail expected working times and any flexibility.​

  • Holiday Entitlement: State annual leave allowances and procedures for requesting time off.​

  • Notice Periods: Outline the required notice for termination by either party.​

  • Confidentiality Clauses: Protect sensitive business information.​

  • Disciplinary and Grievance Procedures: Reference or include procedures for handling workplace issues.

While not all terms need to be in writing, UK law requires employers to provide employees with a “written statement of employment particulars” from the first day of employment.

This document outlines the main terms of employment. However, having a comprehensive written contract is advisable to cover all aspects of the employment relationship and minimize potential disputes.
It’s prudent to review employment contracts regularly, at least annually or whenever there are significant changes in employment law or your business operations.

Regular reviews ensure that contracts remain compliant with current legislation and accurately reflect the terms of employment.
An employee handbook serves as a centralized resource detailing your company’s policies, procedures, and expectations. It helps employees understand workplace standards, benefits, and their rights and responsibilities.

A well-crafted handbook promotes consistency, aids in onboarding, and can be instrumental in defending against legal claims by demonstrating that clear policies are in place

An employee handbook typically includes:

  • Company Overview: Mission statement, values, and culture.

  • Code of Conduct: Expected behaviors and workplace etiquette.

  • Attendance and Leave Policies: Procedures for sick leave, holidays, and other absences.​

  • Health and Safety Guidelines: Commitment to a safe working environment.

  • Equal Opportunities Policy: Commitment to non-discrimination and diversity.​

  • Disciplinary and Grievance Procedures: Steps for addressing issues and disputes.

  • IT and Social Media Policies: Guidelines for using company technology and representing the company online.

Including these policies ensures clarity and sets clear expectations for employees.

Employee handbooks can be either contractual or non-contractual. If the handbook is stated to be part of the employment contract, its provisions are legally binding.
If not, it serves as a guideline. It’s crucial to clearly specify the status of the handbook to avoid ambiguity.
Any updates to the employee handbook should be communicated promptly and clearly to all employees.
Providing a summary of changes, discussing them in team meetings, and requiring employees to acknowledge receipt can ensure understanding and compliance.

If you feel implementing a new or updated contract for your business might be an issue, we can help navigate this too.
Yes, including disciplinary procedures in the employee handbook is advisable. It provides employees with a clear understanding of the standards expected and the consequences of misconduct.
Ensure these procedures comply with the Acas Code of Practice to uphold fairness and legality.​
Engaging legal professionals ensures that your employment contracts and employee handbooks are tailored to your business needs, compliant with current laws, and effectively mitigate potential risks.

Professional guidance can provide peace of mind and safeguard your business against legal challenges.​

Struggling for time?
Ask our team for a callback below.

Why Contracts and Handbooks Matter.

  1. Legal Compliance: Employment contracts and handbooks must meet the requirements of UK employment law, including the Employment Rights Act 1996 and other regulations.

  2. Clarity for Employees: Clearly defined terms and policies reduce misunderstandings and disputes, improving workplace harmony.

  3. Risk Management: Well-drafted documents protect your business from claims, such as unfair dismissal, discrimination, or breach of contract.

  4. Reflect Your Business Values: Tailored contracts and handbooks demonstrate professionalism, build trust, and create a positive impression of your organisation.

Our Services.

  1. Employment Contracts
    We draft and review contracts that meet legal standards and align with your business needs. These may include:
  • Full-Time Contracts: For permanent employees.
  • Part-Time and Fixed-Term Contracts: For non-permanent or flexible roles.
  • Zero-Hour Contracts: For on-call or casual staff.
  • Director and Executive Contracts: With tailored clauses for senior roles.
  • Freelancer and Contractor Agreements: Ensuring clarity for self-employed arrangements.
  1. Staff Handbooks
    We create or update comprehensive staff handbooks that cover essential workplace policies, including:
  • Discipline and Grievance Procedures
  • Equality and Diversity Policies
  • Sickness and Absence Management
  • Social Media and Internet Use Policies
  • Flexible and Hybrid Working Policies
  • Redundancy and Termination Procedures
  1. Policy Audits and Updates
    Already have contracts or handbooks? We can review and update them to ensure compliance with the latest legal developments, such as changes to:
  • Holiday Pay Calculations
  • Flexible Working Rights
  • Discrimination and Equality Legislation
  1. Bespoke Solutions
    We tailor every contract and handbook to your specific industry, workforce, and business goals.

Why Choose My Law Solicitors?

  • Employment Law Experts: With over 20 years of experience, we understand the complexities of employment law and how to protect businesses effectively.
  • Tailored Advice: Our contracts and handbooks are customised to meet your specific needs—no generic templates.
  • Proactive Protection: We’ll identify risks and address them before they become issues.
  • Efficient Service: Our team works quickly and accurately to minimise disruption to your business.
  • Clear Communication: We explain every clause and policy in plain English, so you fully understand your obligations and rights.

Common Employer Concerns We Solve.


Are my contracts legally compliant? We’ll review your documents to ensure they meet all UK employment law requirements.

What should be included in a staff handbook? We’ll help you cover all essential areas while tailoring policies to your specific business needs.

How do I handle contract changes? We provide guidance on implementing updates or changes, ensuring you follow the correct procedures.

What happens if an employee disputes a policy? Our team can assist with conflict resolution, providing clear advice on enforcing your contracts and policies.

Why Acting Now Matters.


Outdated or poorly drafted contracts and handbooks expose your business to unnecessary risks. Taking action now can help you:
  • Avoid legal claims.
  • Improve employee trust and satisfaction.
  • Streamline workplace operations.

Get Expert Help with Contracts and Handbooks.


At My Law Solicitors, we’re here to protect your business and ensure compliance with UK employment law.

  Contact Us Now:

FAQs About Contracts and Handbooks.

  1. Are employment contracts legally required?
    Yes, employees must receive a written statement of employment terms within 2 months of starting work.
  2. Do I need a staff handbook?
    While not legally required, a staff handbook is highly recommended as it sets clear policies and protects your business from disputes.
  3. How often should I update contracts and handbooks?
    We recommend reviewing them annually or whenever there’s a change in employment law.
  4. Can I implement new policies immediately?
    Introducing new policies may require consultation with your employees. We can guide you through the process.

Trusted by Employers Across West Yorkshire and Beyond.


At My Law Solicitors, we’ve helped countless businesses draft, review, and implement employment contracts and handbooks tailored to their needs.

Trust us to help protect your business today.

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Contact Information.

Office.

142 Thornes Lane,
Wakefield,
WF2 7RE

Contact.

info@mylawsolicitors.co.uk
01924 654 194

Open Hours.

Monday-Friday 9:00am - 6:30pm
Saturday 9:00am - 5:00pm
Sunday - Closed