Take a non-competitive job or role outside your current employer's specialty. Prove your employer breached the contract to invalidate the non-compete clause. Argue that the non-compete is overly restrictive or not enforceable. Negotiate or prove no legitimate business interests exist to uphold the agreement.
As a reminder, Virginia is one of eleven states (along with Washington, D.C.) that imposes restrictions on the use of non-compete agreements for so-called “low wage employees.” Effective now in 2025, the salary threshold defining a “low wage employee” in Virginia has increased from $73,320 to $76,081 annually.
Add information about the parties involved. Describe the terms of the Non-Compete Agreement, such as the length and area of the restriction. If necessary, you can include a non-solicitation clause. Add a confidentiality clause.
In Virginia, non-compete and non-solicitation agreements are enforceable only if they are narrowly drawn to protect the employer's legitimate business interests, are not unduly burdensome on the employee's ability to earn a living, and are not against public policy.
Non-Competitive Activity at New Employer: One of the most straightforward ways to overcome a noncompete is by ensuring that your new role with a different employer is in a non-competitive capacity. If you're not engaging in activities that directly compete with your former employer's business, you may be in the clear.
As a General Statement, Non-Compete Agreements may be Valid in Virginia if Narrowly Tailored to Prevent Direct Competition. It is true that restraints against competition are not favored in Virginia.
Several factors can void or limit the enforceability of a non-compete agreement, including overly broad restrictions, unreasonable time frames or geographical limits, lack of consideration (such as compensation or job opportunities provided in exchange for the agreement), and violation of public policy.
A Virginia Standard Clause limiting an employee's solicitation of employees and customers during the term of the employee's employment and for a specified period after the employment relationship ends. It is intended for use by private employers.
On October 1, 2022, a new DC law went into effect that makes it illegal for employers to impose non-compete agreements on most DC workers who earn less than $150,000 per year.