Hmmm. It feels like a catch-22 because I don't want to start looking at other places until I know I can get out, and I don't want to try and get out until I have another place lined up.
Whatever you choose, if you ask about it then keep all communication in writing. Do it all by email as much as possible. Don't bother trying to go in to their office and being nice about it, there won't be any proof in that case if they change their mind and you'd be in a worse position than you are now.
Hmmm. It feels like a catch-22 because I don't want to start looking at other places until I know I can get out, and I don't want to try and get out until I have another place lined up.
I feel you. That can be tricky.
Whatever you choose, if you ask about it then keep all communication in writing. Do it all by email as much as possible. Don't bother trying to go in to their office and being nice about it, there won't be any proof in that case if they change their mind and you'd be in a worse position than you are now.