Job Discussion Forums

[marky_mark]

I am thinking of teaching in Japan and I know that their contracts are usually 1 year long. There's a chance that I may get into law school next year, back in Canada, but I would still be in Japan with about a month left on my contract. Can I just pack up and leave or would I be in major trouble if I don't finish my contract?

[lajzar]

If you leave early, it depends on a couple of things. Do you plan to give proper notice within the terms of the contract?

Best case is you'll lose any end of contract bonuses and that particular company will never hire you again. Not sure what the worst case is, but it probably revolves around your identity being put on a blacklist and a possible fight over your final months pay.

[Iwantmyrightsnow]

If you do quit early, try and give as much notice as possible. The contract will probably state a minimum of one month is required.

If you do that things should probably be ok but there is a small possibility they might try to withhold your last salary. It is completely illegal but known to happen at some places.

With that in mind, I would suggest you join a union as soon as you arrive - help the union to hel people who get into situations like that.

www.generalunion.org

[Glenski]

Quit early and you will likely lose any end of contract bonus, which amounts to airfare. You will also have to vacate your apartment immediately, if it is school sponsored.