California Business and Professions Code § 16600.5 states that a void non-compete under California law is “unenforceable regardless of where and when the contract was signed.” It also prohibits employers from enforcing a void provision “regardless of whether the contract was signed and the employment was maintained ...
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.
The California courts have consistently held that this law means what it says – that non-compete provisions are not enforceable. The only exceptions are where the provision is in a contract for the sale of a business or the sale or dissolution of a partnership or limited liability company.
In California, courts have determined that a non solicitation is invalid and not enforceable. However, there are cases where these agreements have been upheld under certain situations.
A noncompete agreement has the ability to threaten your future job prospects, prohibit you from using your hard earned skills and compromise your livelihood. Fortunately, it is unlawful for an employer to enforce non-compete agreements in California.
Although non-competes are banned by California law, you can still have robust protections for confidential information and trade secrets. These provisions are critical and should be tailored enough to avoid being considered “de facto” non-competes.
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.
The California courts have consistently held that this law means what it says – that non-compete provisions are not enforceable. The only exceptions are where the provision is in a contract for the sale of a business or the sale or dissolution of a partnership or limited liability company.
California generally bans non-compete agreements “regardless of where and when the contract was signed,” and “whether … the employment was maintained outside of California.” Practically speaking, California prohibits all employers from enforcing these agreements.
The notice must be "individualized" and inform the employee that the noncompete clause or agreement is void. The notice must be sent to the last known address of the employee or former employee and to their email address.