Question

Aymes was hired by Bonelli of Sun Island Sales to create a specialized program for Sun Island to use in maintaining its business records. Bonelli gave Aymes instructions about what he wanted the program to do, and Aymes did most of the work at Sun Island's office during regular work hours. Aymes generally worked alone on the project. He was paid when he submitted invoices to Sun Island for his work. Sun Island did not withhold taxes or make Social Security payments on his earnings. When a dispute arose later about the program, the court had to determine whether Aymes was an employee or an independent contractor. The court most likely held that Aymes was an

a. independent contractor, because of his level of skill and because he was paid when he submitted invoices.
b. independent contractor, because he kept regular hours.
c.employee,because Sun Island directed the creation of the
program and he worked in the office.
d. employee, because Sun Island reserved the right to assign Aymes other projects.

Answer 1

The court most likely determined Aymes to be an independent contractor based on his specialized skill set, autonomous work environment, and payment method. These factors typically indicate an independent contracting relationship rather than employment.

Step-by-step explanation:

The court most likely held that Aymes was an independent contractor, because of his level of skill and because he was paid when he submitted invoices. This is a common situation in contract law cases where the court must determine the nature of the work relationship based on several factors. These factors include the level of control over the work, the financial arrangements between the parties, the provision of equipment, the opportunity for profit or loss, the level of skill required, the permanence of the working relationship, and the extent to which the services rendered are an integral part of the principal's business.

Given that Aymes performed specialized work that required a significant level of skill, worked autonomously, and was paid upon submission of invoices without taxes or Social Security being withheld by Sun Island, the classification as an independent contractor is supported. The regular work hours and the fact that the work was performed in the office do not necessarily indicate employment status if the other conditions favor an independent contractor relationship.