Been offered new job but not sure what to do in terms of contract

[sjh2156]

Hi Everyone
I apologise in advance if this seems like a silly question, but I need some advice/opinion as I have been out of the job seeking market for some time.

Basically I have worked for the same company for over 20 years, but due to a takeover and potential relocation of the offices I have been looking for a new job. I have been offered a new job with a local company, they have sent me a a official offer letter detailing just the job title, annual salary and proposed start date. The offer expires in a couple of days and I am not sure what to do in terms of the job employment process. I really want to know more about the terms and conditions of the job like holidays, benefits, etc, but I guess that will be in the contract.

My question is, if I say yes to the job offer letter, am I legally bound to them if I change my mind a few days later, what I am trying to work out is at what point is no return, because I am guessing that until I get a contract from and sign it, I cannot hand in my notice with my current employer.

Hope that makes some sense.

Thanks

[mariefab]

Is the offer letter unconditional or conditional?
i.e. Is the offer subject to satisfactory references etc.?

[sjh2156]

I am not totally sure, the offer letter only states, Job Title, Salary, Start Date and that there is a initial 3 months probationary period, which could be extended by a further 3 months or converted to a permanent contract, there is no mention of anything else??