Saad Mirza
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May 13, 2025
Top 7 Reasons You Need a Lawyer to Review Your Contract
Landing a new job or earning a promotion is an exciting milestone. I see firsthand how tempting it is to sign that offer as soon as it lands in your inbox. But before you put pen to paper, it’s worth pausing for a moment.
A single overlooked clause in your employment contract can cost you thousands-or even jeopardize your future career options. We’ve helped clients who only realized the significance of their contracts after facing unexpected terminations, bonus disputes, or non-compete surprises. Here’s why a legal review is essential before you sign.
What Is a Contract Review and Why Does It Matter?
A contract review is a thorough examination of your employment agreement by a lawyer who
understands both the law and the realities of the workplace.
Employment contracts come in many forms-offer letters, executive agreements, freelance contracts, and more-but all set out the terms of your job, your pay, your benefits, and your obligations.
Many people assume these documents are “standard.” In reality, contracts are usually drafted by employers to protect their own interests. I’ve seen who missed out on months of severance pay or lost out on bonuses, simply because they didn’t realize what they were agreeing to.
For example, one client came to us after being terminated from a long-term position, only to discover their contract capped severance at eight weeks’ pay-far less than what they would have been entitled to under the law if the contract hadn’t limited their rights.
Here are the 7 reasons why you need to hire an attorney:
1. Spotting Unfair Clauses
Employment contracts often include non-compete, confidentiality, and restrictive termination clauses. These can limit your ability to work elsewhere, start your own business, or even talk about your work experience.
2. Understanding Legal Jargon
Legal language can be confusing. Terms like “just cause,” “constructive dismissal,” or “discretionary bonus” aren’t always clear. Our job is to translate these into plain English, so you know exactly what you’re agreeing to.
3. Negotiating Better Terms
A lawyer isn’t just there to spot problems-they can help you negotiate improvements. Whether it’s a higher salary, better benefits, remote work flexibility, or a more generous severance package, we’ve helped clients secure terms that truly reflect their value.
4. Ensuring Legal Compliance
Employment laws change frequently, and contracts must comply with both provincial standards (like Ontario’s Employment Standards Act) and federal laws. We review contracts to make sure they meet all legal requirements and protect you from clauses that might be unenforceable or illegal.
5. Protecting Your Future Rights
Some contracts try to claim ownership of anything you create at work, or limit your ability to be promoted or receive equity. We help you understand and negotiate these terms, so your future opportunities aren’t restricted.
6. Avoiding Future Disputes
A well-drafted contract can prevent misunderstandings about notice periods, dispute resolution, and exit strategies. We’ve seen too many clients face costly legal battles that could have been avoided with a clear, fair agreement from the start.
7. Peace of Mind
Ultimately, having a lawyer review your contract gives you confidence. You’ll know exactly what you’re signing and can start your new role without second-guessing your decision.
Who Needs a Contract Review?
Anyone offered a new job, promotion, or transfer should consider a contract review. This includes:
• New hires, especially for permanent or long-term roles
• Executives or managers with complex compensation packages
• Freelancers or contractors with project-based agreements
• Employees moving into new roles or accepting internal transfers
I’ve worked with everyone from entry-level employees to senior executives. Each situation is unique, but the need for clarity and protection is universal.
What to Expect During a Contract Review
The process is straightforward. A lawyer starts with a consultation-often free or “pay-what-you-feel”-to discuss your goals and concerns. Next, the lawyer reviews your contract in detail, flagging any issues and suggesting revisions.
The lawyer provides clear feedback and, if needed, helps you negotiate with your employer. Most reviews can be completed within a few days, and our flat-fee pricing means there are no surprises.
Common Mistakes People Make Without Legal Review
• Signing quickly without asking questions or seeking advice
• Assuming “standard” templates are always fair or legal
• Relying on HR to explain complex legal terms (remember, HR works for the employer)
• Overlooking clauses that limit bonuses, severance, or future employment options
A careful contract review is one of the smartest investments you can make in your career. Don’t let excitement-or pressure-push you into signing something you don’t fully understand.
Author: Saad Mirza
I’m Saad Mirza, the founder of Thrive Law, a employment law firm dedicated to helping employees across Ontario navigate challenging job terminations and workplace issues.