So if I verbally accept a new job am I legally bound

[1944dadhelp]

Basically as above. Think I may have been a little hasty in accepting.

Nope - not until you have signed the relevant paperwork.

Not until you've signed a contract. It's a bit unreasonable to pull out if you've verbally accepted, guess it depends on your reasons? Is it something that could be overcome / dealt with if you spoke with your new employer?

No, not at all.

No, you can pull out. We have quite a few people pull out of job offers over the years - it happens.

I've known this to be the case in teaching.

No, I've done it because I got a better offer in the meantime!

You can't be held to a job no matter what (although, as Luciferbox says, teaching has some highly weird conventions)

Even if you accepted and signed, lots of jobs have a probation period where you can leave with virtually no notice.

I've pulled out of jobs more than once, and had candidates change their minds about jobs I've offered - it's no problem, it's a job, not indentured servitude.

If you'd been offered a job this way, you'd want the employer to live up to it.

But no, they cannot force you to start, so you need to tell them today and with fulsome apologies. Because if they've stood down other candidates in light of your acceptance, you've caused them extra hassle (and you never know when you might cross paths with organisations/individuals again).

They will ring the next person shortlisted and offer it to them, if possible.
How long since your offer of a job?

Thanks every-one. I'm being hesitant as my new boss got rather off with me as I have to work my full notice in my current work place (I warned her during iv this may be the case). I love my current job (teaching) but it's too stressful being full time with 3dd's (can't afford to go part time). She sent me a rather harsh e-mail saying it wasn't ideal and I just didn't feel comfortable with her tone. Not sure if I'm being over sensitive or if it's a sign of worse things to come.
I know my school would be more than happy for me to retract my notice and I'm wondering if we should just tighten our belts and for me to actually go part time.
I'm so confused :( :(

Let's look at it logically, then.

Did you discuss your notice period before you got the offer?

It may just be that the new employer got their wires crossed and believed that you'd be able to start earlier, and is now disappointed that you can't.

How was the email phrased? "It's not ideal" is one of those management-y type phrases that can be interpreted much harsher than it's meant...

Is it possible that you're doubting your decision anyway, and that's why you're so unsure?

Email her back, reminding her that you told her about the possibility of the notice period. That should show her you're not a push over, and her reply will give you more info on what type of boss she'd be. Good luck.