Non-Compete Agreement Lawyer in Sarasota
Experienced Counsel for Enforceable Contracts
Non-compete agreements are a common tool used by employers to protect their business interests. These agreements are designed to prevent employees from leaving the company, working for a competitor, or starting a competing business. Non-compete agreements can be an effective way to protect a business, but they must be carefully drafted to be enforceable.
At Violette Law Firm, we have extensive experience drafting, reviewing, and litigating non-compete agreements. If you need help with a non-compete agreement, we can provide the guidance you need.
Call today at (941) 365-6563 or fill out our online contact form. We offer appointments by phone, in person, or a virtual conversation.
What Is a Non-Compete Agreement?
A non-compete agreement is a contract between an employer and an employee that restricts the employee from engaging in a competing business or working for a competitor for a certain period of time and within a certain geographic area. Non-compete agreements are typically used to protect a company’s trade secrets, confidential information, and customer relationships.
Non-compete agreements are often used in the following industries:
- Technology
- Healthcare
- Sales
- Manufacturing
- Finance
- Real estate
Non-compete agreements are also used when a business is sold. In these cases, the buyer may require the seller to sign a non-compete agreement to prevent the seller from starting a competing business.
What Is a Reasonable Non-Compete Agreement?
Whether a non-compete agreement is reasonable depends on the specific facts and circumstances of the case. In general, a non-compete agreement is more likely to be reasonable if it is narrowly tailored to protect the employer’s legitimate business interest.
For example, a non-compete agreement that restricts an employee from working for a competitor for ten years and within a 100-mile radius is likely to be unreasonable. On the other hand, a non-compete agreement that restricts an employee from working for a competitor for two years and within a 10-mile radius is more likely to be reasonable.
When determining whether a non-compete agreement is reasonable, a court will consider the following factors:
- The length of time the agreement is in effect
- The geographic area the agreement covers
- The line of business the agreement covers
- The employer’s legitimate business interest
- The employee’s job duties and responsibilities
- The employee’s access to the employer’s trade secrets, confidential information, and customer relationships
It is important to note that a non-compete agreement that is reasonable at the time it is signed may become unreasonable at a later date. For example, a non-compete agreement that is reasonable when the employee is hired may become unreasonable if the employee is promoted to a higher position with more job duties and responsibilities.
If you are interested in incorporating this type of agreement into an employee’s contract, Violette Law Firm can help. Call (941) 365-6563 today or fill out our online contact form to speak to a knowledgeable non-compete agreement lawyer in Sarasota. We offer appointments by phone, in person, or a virtual conversation.
Why Choose Violette Law Firm?
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Licensed in real estate, we offer a specialized focus on property law, ensuring that your real estate transactions are handled with the utmost professionalism and attention to detail.
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Over the past 14 years, we have built a solid reputation based on our successful outcomes and satisfied clients. Trust us to navigate the complexities of the legal system with skill and confidence.
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We believe in accessibility. Take advantage of our complimentary virtual consultations, where you can discuss your legal concerns from the comfort of your own space, at no cost to you.
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As born and raised attorneys in the community, we understand the unique needs of our clients. Our commitment extends beyond local boundaries, providing comprehensive legal solutions.