In most situations, an unsigned contract will result in a non-deal, and the document will not legally bind the parties. However, there are certain situations where a court may hold that the wording has legal effect.
Well the answer should be simple and that is that if the applicant was presented with a contract prior to commencement of employment and refused to sign the agreement, then no agreement was reached and the applicant will not work for the employer and cannot be considered to be an employee of the employer.
The ultimate legal test is whether, based on an objective assessment, the parties should be considered to have reached an agreement. If so, then the lack of a signature in order to communicate acceptance of an offer will not of itself be a barrier to a legally binding contract coming into effect.
Nothing contained in this Agreement will confer upon the Optionee any right to be employed or remain employed by the Company or any Subsidiary, or limit or affect in any manner the right of the Company or any Subsidiary to terminate the employment or adjust the compensation of the Optionee.
Written employment contracts are not required. However, many employers use them when hiring for a high-level or professional position. Most written employment contracts will describe the scope and duties of the job in addition to the salary and any other compensation or benefits.
You and your coworkers have the right to meet and discuss workplace issues, including whether or not to be represented by a union. Employers cannot threaten, discriminate against, or otherwise take action against you for organizing or talking with your coworkers about working conditions.
In Maryland, employees work "at the will" of their employers. This means, in the absence of an express contract, agreement or policy to the contrary, an employee may be hired or fired for almost any reason -- whether fair or not -- or for no reason at all; based on non-discrimination.
In some cases, yes--especially if you're not working under a contract. Without a formal contract, you're considered to be employed at will, which means that both you and your employer have the right to terminate the employment relationship at any time.
Under California law, employers must provide notice to employees before termination. For employees who have been employed for less than one year, the notice period is at least 90 days. For employees who have been employed for more than one year, the notice period is at least 60 days.