Frankfort, IL asked in Employment Law for Illinois

Q: I was hired fully remote that is on my signed agreement. The company now built a new building and wants me to come in.

Do I have a legal stand point? What should I do?

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1 Lawyer Answer
Cynthia Pietrucha
Cynthia Pietrucha
Answered
  • Naperville, IL
  • Licensed in Illinois

A: Your situation may indeed involve a potential breach of contract, depending on the specific terms outlined in your signed employment agreement. If your contract explicitly states that your position is fully remote, the company's request for you to work in-person at a new building could be a violation of that agreement.

To determine your legal standing, a thorough review of the employment contract and any related documents is necessary, especially because sometimes companies will put in the offer letter that you must work onsite - let you work remotely - and then conveniently play the "gotcha" game when they want you to come onsite.

The review of your documents would assess the language regarding your remote work arrangement and any clauses that might allow the company to alter these terms.

In response to your situation, you should consider taking the following steps:

1. **Review Your Contract**: Carefully read your employment agreement, focusing on any provisions related to your work location and the company's ability to change these terms.

2. **Document Communication**: Keep a record of all communications from the company regarding the change to in-person work, including emails, letters, or verbal directives.

3. **Seek Legal Advice**: Consult with an employment attorney who can provide guidance based on the specifics of your contract and the circumstances of the company's request.

4. **Negotiate**: If possible, try to negotiate with your employer to find a mutually agreeable solution that honors the terms of your contract.

Pietrucha Law Firm, LLC focuses on employment law and can assist you in reviewing your contract, advising on your legal options, and representing you in negotiations or legal proceedings if necessary. Please feel free to reach out to us to discuss your case in more detail.

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