Is an email offering employment legally binding?
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Is an email offering employment legally binding?
Last fall I was offered a job, that would be a 10 month salaried position, paid twice a month. By nature of the job we work very long hours in the fall with a much lighter load in the spring. I have an email stating it was a 10 month contract, but nothing signed. Then 2 months before the contract was up, when the work load was lighter, the corporate office called and terminated the job effective immediately. In reality I had already worked the hours in the fall, I was being paid for in the spring. Is the email binding?
Asked on August 27, 2011 Florida
Answers:
M.T.G., Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 12 years ago | Contributor
It is very difficult in the technology age to know what and what not will be upheld by the courts. Under generally circumstances I would be leery of an email as a binding contract. Except here you performed under the terms as stated therein and for that alone I think that you need to seek some legal guidance e-mail in hand. In Florida, employees are presumed to be "at will"employees and can be fired for any reason at any time (so long as it is not illegal like discrimination). It is my understanding that in Florida, it is very difficult to overcome the at-will presumption. I tell you this not to discourage you but to know what you are up against. Good luck.
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