Noncompete agreements are a common part of employment contracts, but without your Silver Spring employment litigation lawyer at your side, it may be difficult to modify one after it’s been signed. Fortunately, at Eric Siegel Law, we’ve spent over 30 years helping employees protect their rights. With decades of legal and business experience to draw from, we’re here to make sure you can understand your noncompete agreement – and see how you can modify it. Read on to learn more, and contact us today to get started.
What Is A Noncompete Agreement?
A noncompete agreement is a contract between an employer and an employee that restricts the employee from working for a competitor or starting a competing business for a certain period and within a specific area after leaving the job. Employers use these agreements to protect their business interests, including trade secrets, customer relationships, and market strategies.
Noncompete agreements must meet certain requirements to be enforceable. They typically need to be reasonable in terms of time, geographic scope, and the type of work restricted. Overly broad agreements may not hold up in court, and that’s where we come in to assess their validity.
Can A Noncompete Agreement Prevent Me From Working In My Field?
While a noncompete agreement may limit your options temporarily, it cannot completely prevent you from working in your profession. Courts generally require these agreements to balance the employer’s interests with your right to earn a living. If a noncompete is too restrictive, it may be deemed unenforceable.
For example, if the agreement restricts you from working anywhere in the country or for an unreasonable number of years, it’s worth reviewing the terms. As employment litigation lawyers, we can help you evaluate whether your agreement is reasonable and enforceable.
What Happens If I Break A Noncompete Agreement?
If you violate a noncompete agreement, your former employer may take legal action against you. This could involve filing a lawsuit to enforce the agreement, seeking monetary damages, or both. However, the outcome often depends on whether the agreement is enforceable in the first place.
Before taking any action that might violate your agreement, we recommend reviewing it carefully. We can help you understand the risks and explore potential ways to address the situation without escalating the dispute.
Can I Negotiate A Noncompete Agreement?
Yes, you can negotiate the terms of a noncompete agreement before signing it. Employers are often willing to modify agreements to make them more reasonable and avoid disputes later. For example, you might negotiate a shorter duration, a smaller geographic area, or an exception for certain types of work.
If you’re already bound by a noncompete agreement, you may still have options to negotiate. In some cases, employers may be open to revisiting the terms or agreeing to release you from the agreement. We can assist with these discussions to help protect your rights and career.
Let Us Help You Protect Your Rights
At Eric Siegel Law, we understand how noncompete agreements impact employees and their career opportunities. Whether you’re reviewing a new agreement, dealing with an enforceability issue, or facing a legal dispute, we’re here to help. As experienced employment litigation lawyers, we’ll work with you to find a solution that meets your needs. Contact Eric Siegel Law today, and let’s get started together.