Employer altered job offer

[sc875]

What is the name of your state (only U.S. law)?

I was offered a job in another state late this fall. We agreed on the hours, benefits and pay rate. I asked for a written contract, but was told that I would have to wait .

I then moved accross the country, signed a one year lease for a house, and started working in preparation for my new position while I waited for my professional license. I was creating a new position in the company and much preparation was needed before I could start working with clients. I have spent at least 120 hours in the office, without any pay. I have asked to be compensated for some of this time, but they have refused.

After I recieved my license and just a few days before I am to start working offically, the owner met with me to say that the had decided to reduce my work hours, hourly pay, and benefits. They are losing money as a result of two of their other employess, so they have decided to reduce my pay.

I had expected an almost full time position with benefits and now have only a part time position with no benefits. I am not in a potition to move again and am not sure how to proceed.

Also, is a verbal job offer with terms legally bidning. Can the owner suddenly change the terms after I have moved and just days before I am to start working?What is the name of your state (only U.S. law)?

 

[Zigner]

Let's say you had worked there for 1 day and then the changes were made. What would you have done then?

 

[cbg]

In the absence of a legally binding contract that guarantees particular terms for a particular time frame, your employer may legally change the terms of your employment as often as business needs, or his own whims, require.

While there is such a thing as a verbal contract, your problem - and the burden of proof would be on you - is to prove not only that the agreement was contractual, but that the terms were for a specific time frame and could not be altered outside of that time frame.