Legal Question in Business Law in California

Yes, and it is mostly likely the case even if you do not sign the paper.

Yes, and signing the paper is essentially unnecessary to make it so. The principal exception is that under some union contracts you may have limited seniority-based rights to continued employment, or in some cases if you sign a contract for a year's employment (for example) and you are let go earlier, you may have an action for breach of contract (but not reinstatement).

As a Franchise Attorney I agree with both attorney answers. Without a written employment agreement, the relationship is "at will," meaning either party can terminate for any reason at any time. Consult with a good business or franchise attorney in your area for specific advice.

Mr. Franchise - Kevin B. Murphy, B.S., M.B.A., J.D.

Franchise Foundations, a Professional Corporation

It is the law. In general, unless an employee is civil service, in a union, or has a written employment contract, they are an 'at will' employee that can be disciplined or fired any time for any reason, with or without �cause�, explanation or notice. This company simply is making you acknowledge you understand that.