quick question please!

[krankyd]

HI,

Need a bit of quick advice. I've currently in-contract until the 22nd of Jan, and I've just signed an extension for the next 3 month's. The agency have just rang me up, advising that the client is cutting back staff, and my name is on the list of people who are targetted (e.g. all contract staff at this point). They are saying it's likely that the client will terminate contract's over the period of the extension within the termination clause, e.g. 7 days. Now I would not have signed this extension if I knew they were planning to (potentially) axe us over the next period, as I have plenty of other offers of work about. the bad bit is that my contract has no get-out clause that I can see, and there is no termination possible from my side. Is there any way I can terminate a contract before it has started?

[Cowboy Bob]

there is no termination possible from my side. Is there any way I can terminate a contract before it has started?

No, not once you've signed the contract/extension. They'd have grounds to sue you. Whether they do or not and whether you want to risk it is up to you...

[Spacecadet]

You could question them on their ability to honour the contract... however flinging accusations at them about a perceived threat to cancel might do more harm than good.
It might be better to have an understanding word with one of the managers and get agreement on both sides so you can watch your back as they are undoubtedly watching their own.

Have another read through your contract too, although there might not be a specific termination clause for you, there is usually one relating to failure to provide service for 7 days will result in termination of the contract.

However, given that the extension has been signed off by all parties then it is a bit too late.

[The Lone Gunman]

I would be inclined to get legal advice, I am sure that them signing a contract they have no intention of honouring is not legal and should therefore void the contract. May even leave them open to a law suit.

There termination clause is there should there be a material change in circumstances, but it sounds like they know that they are going to get rid of you now so they have deceived you by offering x months.