As a business owner, especially in the technology sector, you might wonder: "Should I have my employees sign an employee agreement?" The answer, as explained by veteran corporate lawyer Phil Crowley, is a resounding yes – it's a prudent and highly advisable practice.
In this crucial video, Phil Crowley, founder of Crowley Law LLC, details why formal employee agreements are vital for protecting your company's most valuable assets. He emphasizes two primary areas that these agreements should cover:
Intellectual Property (IP) Ownership:
It's essential to have employees formally acknowledge in
writing what is typically provided by law: that all intellectual
property they create within the scope of their employment –
including patents, inventions, writings, and any material subject
to copyright – belongs to the employer. This written
confirmation is crucial for clarity and serves as an important
reminder, especially when an employee departs.
Confidentiality Obligations:
Employee agreements should include robust confidentiality
provisions. Employees often gain access to sensitive, inside
information about a company's operations, strategies, and trade
secrets. A written agreement legally binds them to keep this
information confidential, preventing potential damage to your
business if such information were to be disclosed.
Having well-drafted employee agreements covering these key areas is a fundamental step in safeguarding your company's intellectual property and proprietary information. Don't leave these critical protections to chance.
If you're a founder or business leader in a technology-driven industry, ensuring your employee agreements are comprehensive and legally sound is paramount.
The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.
