letter of intent

[v-girl]

Anyone know what all the jargon means? DH asked me to look over it before he signs. I looked. I saw the dollar amount (6 digits is good enough to me). I don't know what everything means though. Is there a service that deciphers these things for lay spouses?

[Meenah]

Get an attorney who negotiates medical contracts. The best money you will spend!

[GrayMatterWife]

Get a lawyer. Never put your signature on a document when you do not fully understand the legal effect of every provision therein under the applicable law. Ever.

Sorry to be a downer. There is no short-cut way to "decipher" whereby you would get a proper legal analysis.

[SuzySunshine]

I agree, get a lawyer! I know it sucks but its a lot of money, time, etc. that you've both put into all of this training to be screwed with by the job.

ETA: We have a med school friend that did residency in that area and now has her own practice, if you need a referral let me know I'm sure she has an attorney who is well versed in medicine.

[Pollyanna]

I agree about the lawyer. I know you guys want to stay put but let me just throw out to you the possibility of looking around. I would want to make sure there is an "out" clause for your hubby. You never know what other options are out there plus you have no bargaining power if you just say that you'll stay. Also not trying to be a downer...I am so excited for you guys I just want to make sure you get the best deal for your family.

[alison]

Get a lawyer for peace of mind. It was expensive for dh's 15-page contract, but worth it!

[SoonerTexan]

Glad you are that much closer to a 4th child and minivan!

[v-girl]

Does this mean it isn't binding:

We are excited about the prospect of having you join the Department of Pediatrics as a faculty
member and colleague. While this letter reflects our intent with regard to your appointment to the
faculty, no offer of employment is official until you receive a formal contract signed by the Dean
of XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX. In order to compose a formal offer from the school, we want to
summarize a number of issues we have discussed regarding the position proposed.

[SuzySunshine]

That would be my guess. My guess is that you and DH should go over those issues and if you're ok with them sign it. Then when you get the formal contract hire an attorney.

[Meenah]

Definitely get the lawyer. I was amazed at the things the lawyer pointed out to us that we both just glossed over!

[Momo]

Of course you should get a lawyer; everyone should! Good luck & congrats!

[GrayMatterWife]

Does this mean it isn't binding:

It means nothing enforceable. It is a statement telling you that they intend to make you a promise (that is, an offer for employment). This and $2.69 will get you a cup of Starbucks.

You need a lawyer to review and advocate for your interests when the Hospital produces a legally enforceable offer.

[v-girl]

Got it. He's going to sign and turn it in before the 12th. He knows of a group that reviews contracts for a nominal fee for new docs (in hopes that the docs will hire them later when they are making good money). We also have a few friend's to get lawyer referrals from when the time comes.

[GrayMatterWife]

Got it. He's going to sign and turn it in before the 12th. He knows of a group that reviews contracts for a nominal fee for new docs (in hopes that the docs will hire them later when they are making good money). We also have a few friend's to get lawyer referrals from when the time comes.

Just to be clear: I am not saying that, by signing it, your DH is not obligating HIMSELF to something. I was just answering the question regarding what the exact phrase that you pulled out means. I was just saying that the sentence you pointed to does not constitute an enforceable offer. I really would not sign anything unless you understand what you are signing. I have not seen the document--it may bind your DH to something by his signature. I have no idea.

Good luck!

[DCJenn]

I wouldn't even have him sign the letter of intent without a legal review. Honestly, the hospital cares about the hospital and no one else.

J.