Expert: Richard Stolp - 8/4/2009

Question
Dear Sir,

I am Salim Shahi, working at Hyderabad for one reputed organization since 28.07.08. Due to some reasons my Regional Head told me to resign the job on Dt.10.06.09, as he is not satisfied with my services, otherwise he will terminate me. I have searched for a job and I put my resignation on Dt.23.07.09. But my HR manager/Business head told me to stay up to 2months as per their procedures & appointment letter. I told them that its your call to resign my job and I have the right to leave any time. Now the problem is they have stopped all my payments. In between this time my company has terminated two persons from my department by showing their previous mistakes. Now these persons are hunting to take revenge on me. I intimated this to my HR, but there is no response from them.  Can you please guide me how to proceed on this?

Answer
Are you at work in the US?  I'll review US general practices. You are correct that you may quit your job at any time, unless you are under a formal contact for a set period of time. Once you resign your salary will stop - if the company still owes you money you may have to prove it too them (show them why in writing).  I don't understand how your leaving could cause other people to be fired.  In any case, HR will not be involved anymore - you don't work for the company anymore. If there is wrong doing or threats you will have to go to the police.