Termination Question

[LondonManc]

Yes. The problem is that the balance of power lies with the other party who don't generally want something like this in the contract. It becomes even worse when you are working via an agency because they will want something in the higher contract between them and the client to cover themselves.

I think that's the key difference between us and consultancies - a layer of middleware. I can't see it changing but it's how you accept the market operates and there's the perm option for those that don't like it.

Good luck - but don't be surprised when the only thing is a take it or leave it offer.

Thanks but this was two months ago. Not bothered about it as the 10% less rate was less than I can get outside IB. Attracted by the prospect of a 6 month initial contract, 2-year project plan but knew the rate cut was a possibility and didn't want the gig if I had to do it at the lower rate.

[northernladuk]

Hi guys,

A work colleague ( yes actually this time it really is ) handed in their notice last week. Seemingly today the client has given his "his notice" terminating his contract Friday.

The question is , can they give him notice if he already has given his notice?

I presume this is notice from a perm job. This is a board for contractors, not employment advice so just be mindful when taking the advice.

Either way I think TF has given the right answer

[SueEllen]

In most typical contracts we work under, they can bin you for no reason whatsoever.

Not if you negotiate your contract properly and make sure the binning clauses aren't vague and arbitrary.

[anthony]

I presume this is notice from a perm job. This is a board for contractors, not employment advice so just be mindful when taking the advice.

Either way I think TF has given the right answer

You would presume wrong in this case.

I just wasn't sure if they could counter with their notice.

[northernladuk]

You would presume wrong in this case.

I just wasn't sure if they could counter with their notice.

Ah in that case they could just walk him off site and not give him notice if they want. They don't even have to give notice. Just withdraw work from him so he can't submit a signed timesheet. Options for recourse in this situation are being discussed heavily in at least 2 current threads but still, the client can and sometimes do this.

[jmo21]

Not if you negotiate your contract properly and make sure the binning clauses aren't vague and arbitrary.

that's why I said "most typical contracts" - I imagine that applies to most, and to be honest I'm happy with that.

If they don't want me, for whatever reason, I am happy to go, no messing about with notice

[SueEllen]

that's why I said "most typical contracts" - I imagine that applies to most, and to be honest I'm happy with that.

"Typical" is if you are foolish and don't read our contract properly before you sign it.

Lots of people don't.

[psychocandy]

Know of a well known client that doesnt bother with notice periods. If, for whatever reason they need contractor gone, they march them off site and then say reason is 'you surfed the internet in the working day'. (Yep, just once is enough of an excuse for them).

Bit of a piss take that mind that if you ask me.

[sal]

Not if you negotiate your contract properly and make sure the binning clauses aren't vague and arbitrary.

If you negotiate your contract properly you will have MOO clause in it. Meaning that if you have ironclad clauses for notice, the client can just stop giving you work, leaving you without signed timesheet and no ground for invoice/payment which is effectively the same as termination without notice.

[psychocandy]

Name please. We all should know about Bad Clients ...

Supplementary question, do you check a client on Glassdoor before you sign a contract? I've started doing it.

Much as I'd like to I'd rather not name names.....