Why Is an Employee Handbook Important for Your Business?
Even though the law does not require Maryland businesses to provide employee handbooks, these documents define the culture, policies, and expectations of your business, protect your commercial interests, and help set expectations for your employees. Both new and established companies can benefit from crafting a well-written handbook that complies with Maryland employment laws—if you need to get started on this process for your Annapolis business, let our employment attorneys help.
Employee handbooks help define the relationship between employers and employees by clearly outlining workplace conduct, benefits, leave, and safety protocol policies. Often, well-written and clear handbooks establish the foundation for a professional and harmonious environment.
They also help protect you legally and shield you from liability. For instance, you can use these handbooks to spell out your compliance with Maryland’s labor and employment laws by detailing anti-discrimination policies, wage practices, and safety requirements. If any employee attempts to file a workplace lawsuit against you, a detailed handbook will help you demonstrate your commitment to fair and safe business practices.
What Should Your Employee Handbook Include?
Tailor your workplace handbook to your business’s unique operations and industry, and make sure to address Maryland laws regarding at-will employment, anti-harassment measures, and wage practices.
If your handbook contains ambiguous language or legal jargon, your employees may misunderstand your rules, challenge your policies, or use the lack of clarity as a basis for a lawsuit. Present your policies in plain, concise language, and periodically review your handbook to keep up with evolving legal standards.
Can an Employee Handbook Be Enforced in Maryland?
Maryland courts typically do not treat employee handbooks as legally binding contracts, but if your handbook includes language that guarantees specific outcomes or benefits, your employees may hold you accountable if you do not fulfill those promises. Consider adding a clear disclaimer that states that the handbook does not serve as a contract and that employment in the state of Maryland remains at-will.
How Can You Ensure Your Handbook Protects Your Business?
Prioritize precision and proactivity when drafting your employee handbook. We highly recommend hiring a seasoned employment lawyer in your area to assist you, as an experienced attorney can identify potential risks and help you draft policies that mitigate those risks. Involve all members of your management team while drafting and revising your handbook to make sure that the text addresses the practical realities of your business.
Make sure to train your team on handbook policies and conduct regular updates and training sessions.
Let the Annapolis Business Attorneys at Oliveri & Larsen Help With Your Employee Handbook
If you need to write or update an employee handbook for your Annapolis business, trust the seasoned Annapolis business attorneys at Oliveri & Larsen to walk you through the process and cover every legal nuance necessary. Call us at 410-295-3000 or contact us online to schedule a consultation. We serve clients throughout Annapolis, Ocean City, Anne Arundel County, Baltimore County, Baltimore City, Calvert County, Harford County, Howard County, Kent County, Queen Anne’s County, St. Mary’s County, Worcester County, and the upper and lower Eastern Shores of Maryland.