Can an employer ask for back wages?

I do some part-time work for a university. In May I was going to resign my official role when the Director asked me to work as a consultant with the same salary. I agreed and since then I have been getting paid and working for the University.

Yesterday my replacement mentioned that the University should have terminated my pay in May and given him that money. As a result they are going to write me a letter asking me to repay the money I have received since May. I talked to my Director this morning and she said she didn't want to terminate my employment but that she wanted to resolve the situation. She wants me to pay the money directly to my replacement and leave the University out of the loop. Since I was under the impression that I was still working for the University do they have the legal right to ask for those wages back? Since I worked the hours and nobody told me I was terminated I feel like I should keep the money.

Answer:
Do you have anything in writing for either the payment or termination agreement. I wouldnt worry about it until they ask you for it. Do you feel you earned it? As a subcontractor/consultant you would have to sue in court to get your money if you feel it is due to you. If you feel you do owe them the money, ask for a payment plan. Other Questions and Answers:
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