How Reliable is a Verbal Release

[Pinchy]

My question involves independent contractors in the state of: CA

I requested my Employer/Agency for a Written Release so that I can change to another Agency.

I made the request in e-mail and he replied back stating they are not open to give me any written release of any non-compete and non-solicitation. And said that "You signed an legally binding Employment Agreement with us and we expect you to honor the agreement."

I know for a fact that either I didn't sign one when I came aboard or they have lost it somehow because they've send me a new Employment Agreement and non-solicitation agreement to sign 2 months ago when I requested for any signed documents with them.

I replied back with can you provide a copy of this agreement to me?

Then 30 mins later, he called me and told me to go ahead. I asked him again for a written and he said if he does that for me, he will have to do it for everyone.

Now he did mention that they dont want to play hard ball and it is not right to change agency like that. But given that I've been with them for 5+ years he told me to go ahead with it.

Now how reliable is that? I am afraid that they will come after me in 6 months or so and bite me in the butt!!

Thanks for your helps!