Bringing on a dental associate is a big step in growing your practice, but the relationship needs to be structured carefully to avoid misunderstandings and legal disputes. A well-drafted contract is the foundation for a successful partnership with your associate, outlining responsibilities, compensation, and long-term expectations. This is where business law expertise becomes invaluable, and hiring an attorney can save you from costly pitfalls down the road.
First, clarify the scope of employment and duties. Your associate’s contract should detail their clinical responsibilities, expected patient load, and administrative tasks, if any. By laying out these duties, you set clear performance expectations that help avoid confusion later. An attorney can help draft this section to be thorough yet flexible, accommodating your practice’s changing needs while ensuring compliance with state dental board requirements.
Next, address compensation and benefits in a transparent manner. Whether you choose a salary, production-based pay, or a hybrid model, specify how and when the associate will be paid. Don’t forget to include details on bonuses, vacation days, and health insurance, if offered. Attorneys skilled in business law can ensure that your compensation structure is legally sound, accounts for various financial scenarios, and respects both parties’ interests.
Another key element is the restrictive covenants section, which might include non-compete and non-solicitation clauses. These clauses protect your patient base and practice reputation by preventing your associate from setting up shop next door or taking your patients if they leave. However, these provisions must be carefully drafted to comply with Florida’s laws on reasonable geographic scope and time limits. An attorney can help you create enforceable provisions that hold up in court and don’t overreach.
Finally, outline a clear dispute resolution process. Even with a thorough agreement, disagreements can arise—whether about compensation, performance, or patient handling. Including a process for mediation or arbitration can minimize costly litigation if disputes surface. Having an attorney involved in drafting and reviewing these clauses ensures that any conflict will be resolved efficiently and fairly, safeguarding both your practice and your associate’s professional future.