Provided by:  Jennifer Kirschenbaum, Esq.

June 3, 2021

Question:

Hi Jennifer,

If I sign a letter of intent that has terms for my employment, does this mean there is no room for negotiating later, before I sign a contract?  

Thank you!
Dr. M



Answer:

Careful here!  Some employers may actually treat an LOI as the contract (some hospitals do...), and if not, then still the employer will expect to hold you to the points set forth in the signed LOI.   Entering into an LOI thinking you can negotiate later is a bad idea.   If you sign the LOI it means you are setting an expectation you do accept the terms set forth, and trying to open those terms later can be viewed as negotiating in bad faith.  So, do not sign if you do not agree.  And, yes, you should have any LOI reviewed by counsel prior to execution.