Table of Contents
How is a non-compete agreement enforced?
To be enforceable, a noncompete must be (i) necessary to protect certain employer interests, (ii) reasonable in time and scope, (iii) consistent with public interest and (iv) supported by consideration.
What are are non-compete contracts and are they enforceable?
Non-compete agreements are typically considered enforceable if they: Have reasonable time restrictions (generally less than one year) Are limited to a certain geographic area (specific cities or counties, rather than entire states) in exchange for promising to not work for a competitor.
Are non competes ever enforced?
Generally speaking, non-compete agreements (also sometimes called non-competition agreements, or simply non-competes) are not enforceable in California against former employees.
What is a valid non-compete agreement?
Non-compete agreements are legally binding restrictive contracts between an employer and an employee. These agreements typically prohibit an employee from directly or indirectly competing with the business for a specific length of time after employment has ended.
What happens if you break non-compete?
Generally, if you violate a valid and enforceable non-compete agreement, it is likely that your employer will file a lawsuit against you. In very rare cases, the court may prevent you from working for a competitor for the duration specified in the non-compete.
Can you get out of a non-compete?
According to the agreement you signed, you cannot go work for competing businesses if you leave your job. Fortunately for you, courts have recently limited the power of non-compete agreements to protect employees’ rights, making it possible (though not guaranteed) for you to get out of your non-compete.
What is the penalty for breaking a non-compete clause?
Liquidated damages are typically specified in the non-compete agreement in the event that an employee breaches the non-compete. If the non-compete is valid and enforceable, you as a former employee could be required to pay money damages in the amount specified in the non-compete.