employ

Legal TerminologyLegal glossary term

Legal Definition

In a legal context, 'employ' refers to the relationship where one party (the employer) has the authority to hire or assign work to another party (the employee), establishing a formal obligation for the employee to perform specific duties under the terms of an employment contract. This term defines the legal basis for the relationship between an individual and an entity that provides the means of livelihood.

Plain-English Translation

It means someone is hired or assigned a job by another person or company. In law, it means there is a formal agreement where one person (the employer) agrees to give another person (the employee) a position or task, creating a legal obligation for that person to work for the employer.

Context in Contracts

It is crucial in legal documents because it establishes the contractual basis for the relationship, defining the rights and obligations of both parties. It determines who has the authority to hire and who is obligated to perform the work.

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01

An employment contract defining the terms under which an individual is hired.

02

A statute that defines the legal requirement for an employer to employ an individual.

Document context

How employ shows up in legal documents

What is it?

The act of hiring, engaging, or assigning an individual to perform specific duties under a contract of employment; the formal relationship established between an employer and an employee.

Why does it matter?

It is crucial in legal documents because it establishes the contractual basis for the relationship, defining the rights and obligations of both parties. It determines who has the authority to hire and who is obligated to perform the work.

When does it matter?

When discussing the establishment of a formal employment relationship, or when determining the scope of duties and responsibilities within a legal document.

Where is it usually seen?

In contracts, statutes defining labor law, litigation documents, and regulatory compliance frameworks.

Who is affected?

The employer (the entity that hires) and the employee (the individual who performs the work).

How does it work?

It works by establishing a legal framework where one party agrees to provide the means of livelihood or authority to hire another party, thereby creating a legally binding obligation for the employee to perform the agreed-upon duties.

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Wikipedia

Employment

Employment is a relationship between two parties regulating the provision of paid labour services. Usually based on a contract, one party, the employer, which might be a corporation, a not-for-profit organization, a co-operative, or any other entity, pays the...

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Disclaimer: We do not provide legal advice. We translate legal language into plain English and help you prepare for a conversation with a lawyer.