Employment agreements define your pay, responsibilities, and future opportunities. Once signed, they are legally binding and can affect where you work next and how disputes are handled. If you are reviewing an offer, negotiating terms, or dealing with a contract issue, working with a Pittsburgh employment agreement attorney can help you protect your position before problems arise.
At Jones, Gregg, Creehan & Gerace, we represent employees and employers in drafting, reviewing, negotiating, and enforcing employment agreements. If you are making a decision that could impact your career or business, we can step in early and guide you through it.
Why Work With Jones, Gregg, Creehan & Gerace
Employment agreements often look standard, but they carry long-term consequences. We focus on identifying risk early and positioning you for a better outcome.
Clients choose our firm because we offer:
- Representation for both employees and employers, giving us insight into how each side approaches contracts
- Experience drafting, negotiating, and litigating employment agreements
- Serving Pittsburgh businesses and professionals since 1933
- Recognition by Martindale-Hubbell (AV Preeminent), Best Lawyers, and Super Lawyers
- The ability to move from negotiation to litigation if needed
We do not just review contracts. We help you make informed decisions before you sign or take action.
What Does an Employment Agreement Typically Include?
Most employment agreements cover key terms that affect both your current role and your future options.
Common provisions include:
- Salary, bonuses, and incentive compensation
- Benefits such as health coverage, retirement plans, and paid leave
- Job duties and performance expectations
- Duration of employment and renewal terms
- Termination provisions and severance terms
- Confidentiality and non-disclosure obligations
- Non-compete and non-solicitation restrictions
- Ownership of work product and intellectual property
- Dispute resolution provisions, including arbitration or mediation requirements
Each of these terms can create obligations or limit your options later. We review agreements with a focus on what could become a problem down the road and how to address it now.
Can You Negotiate an Employment Contract in Pennsylvania?
Yes. Many contracts are presented as final, but key terms are often negotiable.
We help clients:
- Push back on overly broad non-compete restrictions
- Improve compensation and benefits structures
- Clarify vague or one-sided language
- Secure stronger severance protections
For employers, we ensure agreements are enforceable and aligned with business goals. A poorly written contract can create unintended obligations or weaken your position if a dispute arises.
What Is a Non-Compete Agreement and Is It Enforceable in Pennsylvania?
Non-compete agreements limit your ability to work for a competitor or start a competing business after leaving a job. They may also restrict client or employee solicitation.
In Pennsylvania, courts generally enforce these agreements if they:
- Protect a legitimate business interest
- Are reasonable in duration and geographic scope
- Do not impose an unfair burden
Whether a specific agreement holds up depends on the facts and the language used. We evaluate enforceability and advise you on whether to challenge, revise, or comply with the restriction.
What Should You Know Before Signing a Severance Agreement?
Severance agreements often require you to give up legal claims in exchange for compensation.
Before signing, you should understand:
- What claims you are releasing
- Whether the compensation is adequate
- Any ongoing obligations after separation
We review severance agreements quickly and help you negotiate better terms where possible.
What Happens When an Employment Agreement Is Breached?
A breach occurs when one party fails to meet the terms of the agreement.
Common situations include:
- Failure to pay agreed compensation or benefits
- Early termination without meeting contract terms
- Violations of confidentiality or restrictive covenants
When this happens, timing matters. Acting early can preserve leverage and expand your options. We assess your position and pursue resolution through negotiation or litigation when needed.
Talk to a Pittsburgh Employment Agreement Attorney Before You Sign
Employment agreements are often presented with deadlines, and once signed, your options narrow. Reviewing the terms before committing can prevent disputes and put you in a stronger position from the start.
At Jones, Gregg, Creehan & Gerace, we work with employees and employers throughout Pittsburgh to draft, review, and enforce employment agreements. If you are considering signing a contract or dealing with a dispute, now is the time to act. Contact our team to discuss your situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Pennsylvania employers have to provide a written employment contract?
No. Most employment is at-will. However, once a written agreement is used, both parties are bound by its terms.
What is the difference between an offer letter and an employment agreement?
An offer letter outlines basic terms and may not be binding. An employment agreement creates enforceable obligations for both parties.
Can an employer require you to sign a severance agreement to receive severance pay?
Yes. Severance is typically conditioned on signing a release of claims, which limits your ability to pursue legal action.
How long do non-compete agreements usually last?
It varies. Courts look at whether the duration is reasonable based on the role and industry.