oral contract- is it binding?

[zappycat]

I have been employed with a small business for 10 years. Even though pay is low and wanted more hours, I stayed because boss specifically encouraged me with promises of more hours and job security. Told me as long as their names were on the lease which was still good for 25 years, I had a job there. I asked them several times over last 5 years when business was slow if I needed to be worried or if I needed to look for another job and was always told no. Is this a legal oral contract? Do they have the right to lay me off now and replace me with a family member? My position didn't cease to exist- just me. Any recourse?

 

[jacksgal]

Have you been laid off? Are you going to be laid off? When was last time you were told things were fine? Personally I dont see what was said as a contract

 

[zappycat]

yes, I was laid off just in case the business didn't make enough money to cover payroll and replaced by the owner's sister, who is being paid to work my hours and more. I was told only a week before I was laid off that my job was secure..As long as this owner's name was on the lease, I would have a job. I was never told I could be laid off at will. Every time I asked about my job security, over the last 5 years, I was told it was mine until I wanted to leave. How is this not an oral agreement?

 

[cbg]

Oral contracts CAN be binding. Whether or not you have one is too state and situation specific for a message board to call. Discuss it with a local attorney.