What is a permanent contract of employment?

There are, broadly, two fundamental choices for you as an employer when deciding on the term of someone’s employment:

• a fixed-term contract (which may or may not contain a notice period) or
• an indefinite contract terminable by notice at any time (commonly referred to as a permanent contract)

It is important to draft a contract that addresses this issue correctly and to remember that a fixed term contract does not prevent an employee from obtaining employment rights. Some rights are obtained during the recruitment process, some from the first day of employment and other rights (including the right not to be unfairly dismissed) accrue after two years. It is a combination of the individual’s length of service and contract of employment that will determine their employment rights. Our team have the knowledge and experience to provide wording that is effective for your particular situation.