Legal Question in Employment Law in New York

Oral Contract and severence

I have no written contract, but a verbal one from my ex-boss who no longer works for the company either. I was asked to move from the UK to work for the company in question with the verbal promise, that the start up operation with in the company had 2 years to run before profits were expected.

After 9 months the start up operation was closed, I had been with the company 6 months. Is it unreasonable to expect to be paid until the end of the year, in order to find a position in my specialized field. I do not expect to be paid for the full two years. Do I have a claim for moving expenses, loss of rent security deposit. Also I have a daughter in California who I pay child support for. How do I stand if I am only offered until the end of September or October which is fully expected.


Asked on 9/24/02, 10:21 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys

Brendan Chao Brendan Chao - Attorney & Counselor at Law

Re: Oral Contract and severence

Verbal agreements are enforceable, so long as they can be performed within a year. Did you have an agreement to work possibly for two years, but at least 1 year? There may be an enforeceable claim here under the verbal agreement, and what is known as "detrimental reliance." You relied, to your detriment, on your employer's promise of employment by moving to the US.

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Answered on 9/25/02, 9:10 am


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