: an agreement or contract not to interfere or compete with a former employer (as by working with a competitor)
Under California law, many non-compete agreements are automatically void. Evaluate whether your non-compete agreement falls under the general prohibition of California Business and Professions Code Section 16600. If the agreement was executed after January 1, 2024, it is likely void under AB 1076.
Other states may vary in the specifics of distance and time restrictions. And some states—including California, New Hampshire and Minnesota—have outlawed noncompete clauses in part or entirely. Get expert help from the AMA to understand physician employment contracts.
QUICK SUMMARY: In California, noncompete agreements that are intended to prevent or restrain an employee from engaging in another lawful possession, trade or business during their employment have long been unenforceable.
Employers often include in employment contracts what are referred to as “restrictive covenants.” This term is generally used to describe two main types of contractual clause: the non-solicitation clause and the non-compete clause.
Restrictive Covenants, Explained This restricts how homeowners can manage and modify their land. Examples include restrictions on fence options, the type of animals allowed and the use of outbuildings, such as sheds.