If you have been presented with a non-compete agreement as a condition of employment, you may not know what to expect. You may feel overwhelmed at the idea of limiting your ability to work and make an adequate income. You may also have a few questions. Can you be forced to sign a non-compete? Are non-compete agreements legal in California? Can you get out of a non-compete agreement? These concerns should be treated with the utmost seriousness and attention to detail, and Blackstone Law employment lawyers may be able to help.

With extensive legal experience in employment law, our team has the strategies and resources necessary to protect our clients’ rights. Please continue reading to learn more about the legality of non-compete agreements in California and what to do when you are presented with one.

What Is a Non-Compete Agreement in California?

A non-compete agreement is a contract written in the employer’s interest. The contract generally restricts an employee’s ability to accept work in a similar industry. However, most states are not permitted to enforce non-compete agreements that are too broad and restrictive.

Are Non-Compete Agreements Legal in California?

Non-compete agreements are not legally enforceable in California, meaning your employer should not be able to limit your ability to accept other work. Even if another opportunity is in a similar field or position, your employment should not be limited.

California employers are not legally permitted to utilize non-compete agreements, even if your employment elsewhere is not beneficial to the business. In short, you may not be legally terminated simply for working two jobs in the same industry.

Can You Get Out of a Non-Compete Agreement in California?

Because non-compete agreements are not legally enforceable in California, you will likely be able to get out of the contract. For assistance in navigating this process, please speak with an employment attorney.

How Can a California Employment Lawyer Help?

A lawyer may be able to assist you in several ways throughout the legal process. Specifically,  if you are having trouble in the workplace, we recommend retaining an employment lawyer in California. Your attorney may be able to assist you by offering the following:

  • Legal knowledge
  • Negotiation tactics
  • Handling other legal representation
  • File and complete necessary paperwork
  • Refer you to helpful professionals
  • Provide you with useful information and resources
  • Reduce stress
  • Collect evidence
  • Join or lead investigations

Please refrain from representing yourself during legal proceedings, as you may risk reducing your chances of success. If you misrepresent yourself, you may forfeit the ability to hold your employer accountable. We recommend speaking with an employment lawyer for help, as they are far more likely to represent you accurately, effectively, and favorably.

You should speak with an employment lawyer as soon as possible, as this may improve your chances of success after legal proceedings. This may help your lawyer collect and compile helpful information and evidence as well as construct strong arguments in your favor.

Protect Your Employee Rights With Blackstone Law’s Employment Lawyers in California

If you have signed or been presented with a non-compete agreement by your employer, you may benefit from assistance from Blackstone Law. Our legal team, including experienced personal injury and employment lawyers, has the strategies and resources necessary to support clients of all kinds. We pride ourselves on supporting clients through every step of the legal process, and we hope to do the same for you.

To discuss your case details, express your concerns, and obtain helpful information from our legal team, please do not hesitate to contact us now. Retaining our services early in the legal process may improve your chances of success. This will allow our team to compile and collect useful information and build a strong case in your favor. You can get in touch with us by calling (310) 956-4054 or completing our contact form. We look forward to hearing from you.