Signed contract with new employer start next mth. Current emp counter offer. Renege?

Hi Everyone,
I recently signed a contract with a new employer for a full time, permanent position, the start date is still over a month away.

On handing in my notice I was counter-offered but refused this as I was happy to go to new role.

However since then my own personal circumstances have changed and I feel I would be better off staying with my current employer who have made it clear that the counter-offer still stands.

This is not a decision I'm taking lightly but due to sudden, serious ill health in my family I feel that my current role is more flexible to allow me to care for my family member. Basically I'm seeing everything in a new light and my priorities have definitely changed as a result of this illness.

My question is can I legally get out of the new contract? I understand that I will be letting them down and feel terrible about it, but I wonder about the legal aspect of it.

Any help would be appreciated!

Thank you!

I've never heard of an employer pursuing an employee in this way. Theoretically, they might be able to take some legal action, but why would they bother - it would cost them a huge amount of time, effort and money.

Are you sure that your current employer will still see you as a key team member. As a manager, I feel that once someone hands in their notice, it is often better to let them fly. Their commitment to the organisation is usually gone at that stage.

If you are going to stay, let the other employer know asap so they can make other arrangements.

Thanks Complainer,

That is something I have to consider in terms of my current employer. They did acknowledge that they were at the very least, lax in their treatment of me as an employee and I know that my skills are required, but it is certainly something to consider. I will have my decision made early this week at the latest either way!

I just wish they had made this offer to me prior to my decision as I would never have looked to move, it has nothing to do with money or promotion, the move is purely to another area of the business which is where my (often spoken of) interest lies!

Really, I know that at the end of the day I'm in a very fortunate position to have such offers so I won't complain (no pun intended) too much!

Thanks again!

just a note of caution, your current employer now knows that were looking to move on etc, reason is not important, loyalty and all that is gone out the window, move on and upwards or it could come abck to bite you

Why don't you speak to your new potential employer about your changed circumstances and see what they say. They might be willing to come to an arrangement but if not, they are likely to be much more understanding about why you don't want to join them. Better than just ringing them up to say you are turning down the job. There is no point burning bridges if it can be avoided.

Thanks everyone, I should know more by the end of the week!