Question: I recently received a job offer at a local hospital, but I’m torn. I am ecstatic with the employment opportunity, but they are asking me to sign a one-year contract with all sorts of fine print that I don’t understand. What should I do?

Answer: The vast majority of employers are reasonable and are aware of the fact that most people are unable decipher contractual language without the aid of an attorney. So, the hospital is likely to give you time to review the offer with your lawyer if you ask. Moreover, if you are uncomfortable with the terms of the hospital’s offer, your lawyer can help modify the contract and send it back to the hospital for approval.

Although some strict employers will not consider counter-offers, most reasonable employers are not offended by requests to modify employment contracts. In contrast, many employers will see your choice to seek attorney review as indicative of your thoughtfulness and your foresight in judgment. An attorney can help assure that your decision is made on an informed basis, and remember, you should never sign any contract that you do not understand.