What are the consequences of an individual accepting an offer of employment but then taking a different job? A candidate accepted a job offer from our company. He signed and accepted a conditional offer letter and was due to start work next week. It has transpired that the candidate has been offered another job which he has accepted.

Once any conditions to which the offer was made subject have been satisfied and the employee has accepted the offer, a contract of employment will be in existence.

Once confirmed that a contract of employment has been formed, any subsequent attempt to withdraw from it would require the employee to give the minimum notice to terminate the contract, or be in breach of contract.

The prospective employer may have a claim against the individual concerned, however be aware that any potential losses may be difficult to quantify.

In any claim of this type the employer would have to show what damages it has suffered (generally the damages would relate to the employee not starting the role and