What voids a non-compete agreement in Florida? A non-compete agreement in Florida is voidable if it is unreasonable in geographic scope, length of time, or type of business it restricts.
Under the Noncompete Rule, the FTC adopted a comprehensive ban on new noncompetes with all workers, including senior executives. The final Noncompete Rule provides that it is an unfair method of competition—and therefore a violation of Section 5—for employers to enter into noncompetes with workers.
Therefore, enforceable non-compete agreements in Florida do exist, but they must meet specific criteria: Reasonable Timeframe: Typically, one to two years is considered reasonable, but the exact duration depends on the ownership interest, industry, the specific business, and other factors.
The short answer is yes. Broadly speaking, a non-compete agreement is fully enforceable in the state of Florida as long as it contains the following elements: The Business Interest: Non-competes are only valid if they contain a description of the legitimate business interest they are protecting.
Florida Courts Generally Enforce Non-Compete Agreements As a general rule, Florida courts will enforce non-compete agreements that employers have their employees sign as a condition of employment. This is true even when the only alternative to signing the agreement is to decline employment.
The Enforceability of Non-Compete Agreements in Florida In Florida, non-compete agreements are enforceable under Florida Statute 542.335, provided they are reasonable in terms of time, area, and line of business.
The following are the most common ways to get out of a non-compete agreement: Determine that the terms of the contract do not in fact prevent you from a desired course of action. Recognize when a non-compete contradicts the law. Negotiate a release agreement with the involved parties. Ignore the agreement.
Florida's non-compete statute specifically states that a non-compete “not supported by a legitimate business interest is unlawful and is void and unenforceable.” The meaning of what is a “legitimate business interest” has been the source of a great deal of litigation.