At the outset, this inquiry should be addressed to an attorney who specializes in the area of employment law. Thus, while this response will provide some preliminary guidance, you should consult with such an attorney who will also be able to address your specific set of circumstances. Notwithstanding, generally what you have signed can be considered a contractual term which you would be bound by. More importantly, Pennsylvania is considered an "at will" state which means that employees and employers are free to terminate employment relationships for any reason. That is not to say this freedom is without limits. Those limits come into play because there are other state and federal laws which could provide a basis for a wrongful termination claim. Those laws include laws against discrimination (for age, race, religion etc.), state military leave laws, and whistleblower protection laws. Again, this is not an all inclusive list and you should consult with an attorney who specializes in employment law who could more properly advise you if you feel that you have been wrongfully discharged.
Answered on Dec 01st, 2011 at 2:07 PM