Areemployment contracts valid in all states?

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Areemployment contracts valid in all states?

I’ve been working as an RN for the past 7 months. While joining, I had signed an agreement stating “I agree to continue working at ***** as a full time RN for a minimum of 2 years”. For signing that, they have given me a sign on bonus of $1250 twice (based on the offer letter stating “$10,000 sign on bonus paid every 3 months over the course of 2 years”). Now I’ve couple of very good offers, and I wish to know what I should do in this situation. Can you tell me the legal implications of that agreement and possible ways to break that agreement.

Asked on February 20, 2012 under Employment Labor Law, New Jersey

Answers:

SJZ, Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney

Answered 12 years ago | Contributor

Yes, an employment contract is valid is all states--every state will recognize and enforce a contract from another state unless it is to do something illegal or against public policy; however, employment contracts are neither.

There is no way to legally break the contract unless the other party (the hospital or clinic or doctor's practice; whomever you are working for) breaches its obligations in some significant way. If they materially breach their contract, that may give you grounds to terminate without penalty.

If you breach the contract, the other side can sue you for damages--for example, for a return of any portion of the sign on bonus(es) you have received.


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