Question about the legalities of a training contract

[Galaxy]

Contact you state labor board.. No employer may withold earning..big fines for doing so.....They will do the bullying for you..

As for the contract..It depends on what state, is it a training contract or promissary note? I would wait to see if they produce a copy. Let them start the proceedings then get a lawyer. It will likely cost them more to sue you than than they would get on the remaining of the the contract..

 

[bobbysamd]

Training contracts

Just to chide you a small amount, you (1) should have kept your word and fulfilled the terms of the contract, (2) received a copy of the contract, (3) reviewed the clauses for penalties for breaching the contract and (4) discussed how to work it out with them, known in the law as an accord and satisfaction.

Legally, the company cannot withhold pay. That falls under state labor laws and, probably, the federal Wage and Hour Act. As far as applicable law for the contract itself, a well-drafted contract of any kind will set forth the particular state's laws under which it will be governed.

You don't need an aviation lawyer in this instance. Go see a general practitioner or an employees' labor law attorney.

 

[Spooky 1]

Several years ago a US citizen attempted to break a training contract that he had signed with Singapore Airlines. he was given a Learjet type rating so that he in turn could instruct in the Singapore abintio program in Singapore. After he quit Singapore sued him in a US court and won. It was considered at that time the definitive legal event reagrding this type of litigation.

You may have a problem if this company wants to make a case of this issue.

 

[vclean]

Although contract law varies by state, a contract is not valid unless each party receives consideration. Consideration is something of value, ie. type rating, specialized training applicable outside the current company, etc. Their consideration was your service as a pilot. If a court determines that the training/experience your received is not due consideration, then the contract will likely be invalid.

This will require you to retain an attorney and pay other associated court costs. Even if you win your case, the company can still adversely affect your credit rating, another lawsuit to repair. Also, you can forget about receiving a favorable recommendation from them.

I would negotiate with the company to guard your credit rating and favorable recommendation status.

Unfortunately, you signed the contract, enforceable or not. Your options are a bit limited.

Good luck,