Foote v. Simmonds Precision Products Co.

The primary issue before us is whether the doctrine of promissory estoppel may modify an employment contract that is otherwise terminable at will. We hold that it may and affirm.

This is an appeal from a jury verdict for plaintiff, Fletcher Foote, against his former employer, Simmonds Precision Products Co., Inc. Plaintiff was discharged from his employment as a computer operator after approximately twenty years of service. Defendant claimed that plaintiff was fired for falsifying his time card. Plaintiff alleged that his discharge was the result of his efforts to use the grievance procedure…