Can spouses break a civilian employment contract with PCS orders?

2020-08-15T06:54:24-04:00

Contract requires 120 notice to leave without "cause." Short notice orders have just arrived.

Response by LTC Jason Mackay made Aug 15 at 2020 12:49 PM

2020-08-15T12:49:40-04:00

CPT Private RallyPoint Member Don't think so, but I would expand your quotation marks to see what constitutes cause or if there is a section that talks about contingency situations. This may be a situation where your spouse goes to HR to get their interpretation before they give abbreviated notice. The key to further employment is references. It is a trouble sign when they don't list their last employer or elect to "not contact" them on the application.

This may all be solved by finding out quickly if HR agrees that this is an extenuating circumstance and waives the 120 clause and your husband in good faith give max notice.

The other option is for him to give 120 days notice now, and follow along later. Perhaps takes a week of leave to help move, then return To finish out the time so he has a solid reference. Perhaps there is a telework arrangement that could be a solution.

Response by Lt Col Jim Coe made Aug 15 at 2020 1:01 PM

2020-08-15T13:01:58-04:00

LTC Jason Mackay provides excellent advice. Spouse needs to proactively work with superior and HR to resolve situation.