What Went Wrong Wednesdays: 3 contract issues that got expensive

By | July 31, 2019

breaking-a-contractWritten contracts protect both sides from misunderstandings and can put your relationship on equal ground. No matter whether you are joining a practice as an associate, intending to pursue a sale/purchase, or hiring someone, a contract helps you start your relationship on the right foot.

This week, we will examine three scenarios where contract misunderstandings turned into more serious problems. The ADA Center for Professional Success offers an eBook, Dentist Employment Agreements: A Guide to Key Legal Provisions, that includes a wealth of details and sample contract language.

Scenario 1: I had a change of heart

Problem:

Dr. A intended to sell the practice to a new associate, Dr. B, after two years. They signed a simple contract that lacked details. However, Dr. B changed his mind. With a growing family, he no longer wanted the hassles of owning a practice or working full time.

Dr. A became frustrated because his retirement was postponed and he had to start over to find a new buyer. If Dr. B wanted to remain on part-time, he would need to be officially re-hired by the new owner. This meant more headaches and paperwork for everyone.

Solution:

A contract should clearly spell out every element of a practice sale – including penalties for changing the terms.

For example, the contract should include:

  • The specific timeline and milestones for the sale
  • How and when the purchase price should be determined (typically a valuation is done at the beginning of the relationship and again at one year)
  • Which method(s) will be used to value the practice
  • Valid reasons to void the agreement without penalties, such as death or disability
  • Penalties for non-compliance, including promissory notes, voiding/alteration of non-compete clauses, and voiding/alteration of contractual obligations to remain in the practice

Scenario 2: I didn’t read my contract carefully, and now I owe my employer money

Problem:

Dr. X was fresh out of dental school and excited to land her first job. The HR department assured her that she was signing a “standard contract,” so she skimmed it to double-check the salary, benefits, and start date. She even got a signing bonus which she put towards home renovations.

Eight months later, Dr. X’s husband was offered a fantastic job in another city where they had family. Dr. X started looking for a job in the new city and turned in her notice. Her current employer invoiced her for the signing bonus. Dr. X then realized that the contract required her to stay for at least 24 months to keep the full bonus.

Solution:

Every contract must be read closely, more than once, and by more than one person. A lawyer should review your contract and point out anything that might be unusual or impact your future flexibility.

Pay special attention to:

  • Bonuses that are tied to performance or production goals
  • How long you must stay in the practice
  • Any non-compete clauses that may limit your future career growth

If you do receive a signing bonus or similar payment, resist the urge to spend it immediately. Instead, talk to your accountant or financial advisor about a short-term savings or investment vehicle where you can access it if the need arises.

Scenario 3: I didn’t bother with a written contract

Problem:

Dr. M hit it off with the owner of a small practice. They shared a philosophy of care and even a love of hiking. From the initial interview, it felt like a great match. So when Dr. M was offered the job with just a handshake agreement, he did not hesitate.

In his first year, Dr. M was a rockstar, exceeding his production goals and becoming popular with patients and staff. He expected a bonus and a raise – but was told that they had not agreed to it. The relationship became awkward and uncomfortable, and Dr. M felt he had to leave the practice.

Solution:

As tempting as it can be to skip the hassle of a written contract, the reality is that verbal contracts are significantly more difficult to uphold and can lead to misunderstandings. Push for a written contract that details:

  • Every aspect of compensation, including how and when bonuses will be earned and paid
  • Non-compete terms
  • Agreements on how a transfer of ownership will occur
  • How coverage and other responsibilities will be divided

Remember, a written contract protects both sides, and is worth the lawyer fees to avoid future problems. If the owner refuses a formal contract, write everything down and send it via email to the owner with a read receipt attached. Keep all these communications for your records.

A good contract takes some thought, but it can pay off by keeping things fair and open – the keys to a successful relationship and practice transition.

Need help navigating your own practice transition? Start your ADA Practice Transitions profile today!

This article by Dr. Suzanne Ebert originally appeared in the ADAPT Blog. “What Went Wrong Wednesdays” is series that explore common problems of practice transitions – and offer tips to help you avoid them.

For more information pertaining to practice transitions, visit ADA Practice Transitions blog.

3 thoughts on “What Went Wrong Wednesdays: 3 contract issues that got expensive

  1. Darius Somekhian

    This is a great article. I am happy to hear the ADA has a success center advising on these sorts of potential matters. At Synergy Specialists we make a huge effort to ensure all the details are in writing and there is an agreement / contract in place. There is no reason to risk a break in a relationship which takes years to sometimes build and seconds to burn.

    Reply
  2. Jay R Davidson

    Do non-compete clauses stand up in court? I have heard both yes and no. Is it state-by-state?
    Thanks

    Reply
    1. Dr. Suzanne Ebert DMD

      There are a number of factors that come in to play and the enforceability varies by state. The two primary indicators of whether or not the non-compete will hold up are:
      1. Does the non-compete legitimately protect the business owner
      2. Is the scope of the non-compete overly broad
      As an example, if the vast majority of patients in a practice live within a 2 mile radius, a non-compete that covers a 25 mile radius will probably not be upheld.
      There are many instances of the non-compete clauses being modified or nullified in court but the financial hardship that is incurred by both parties can be significant. For this reason, it is vitally important to understand what you are signing and how your future will be affected if you leave the practice. We recommend that every dentist engage an attorney in the state who is familiar with dental contract issues prior to signing or if you are looking to dispute an existing contract. Many state dental associations will have recommendations for local attorneys who can help.

      Reply

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