Many companies require employees to sign a non-compete agreement when being hired. These agreements are most often used to protect a company’s processes or inventions, as well as keep important information confidential.
However, it is important for an employee to fully understand a non-compete agreement. Here are a few things they should know before signing a non-compete agreement:
Understand the non-compete agreement. Be aware of what the document is stating, as well as the restrictions that may be enforced upon termination of your employment.
Understand if the non-compete agreement is likely to be valid or invalid. While there may be reasonable restrictions that are in place to protect the business, a non-compete agreement is most likely to not be valid if it imposes a hardship upon the employee, preventing them from being able to earn a living in the event that their employment relationship is terminated.
Understand what happens if you leave your company. If you are ever planning to leave your company, it is important to understand what the terms of your non-compete are, especially if you are working for a competitor. Be sure to leave on good terms, and transition carefully.
It is critical to leave confidential information confidential at all times. In the event that you do leave your company, do not take any emails or documents with you that may contain information that is considered confidential to your company.
If you are facing a non-compete agreement and would like legal advice, be sure to contact an employment attorney immediately.
The employment attorneys at Maduff & Maduff have been specializing in non-compete agreements, discrimination, sexual harassment, and wage and overtime theft for more than 20 years. Contact us with your employment law needs today.