California is an outlier compared to most states; non-compete agreements are unenforceable. While employers can seek out other ways to protect confidential company information, a non-compete agreement will not accomplish those goals. Here's what you need to know about California non-compete enforceability.
Additionally, the agreement not to compete must not impose undue hardship on the employee. A clause prohibiting the employee from working for a competitor in a 10 mile radius may be acceptable, but one that prohibits him from working for any competitor in North America may not.
For employees who are not low-wage employees, under Illinois common law, non-competes are enforceable if the employer terminated employment in good faith and with good cause (Rao v. Rao, 718 F. 2d 219, 222-23 (7th Cir. 1983)).
Non-Compete Agreements are generally not enforceable unless they're used to protect trade secrets or a purchaser of a business, recover education or training expenses from an employee of less than two years, or restrict executive and management personnel or professional staff to those personnel ( C.R.S.
Non-compete agreements are a common part of the business world these days. But just because you sign a non-compete agreement doesn't mean your employer will enforce it (or try to enforce it) after you leave your current job.
Proving there was a breach of your employment contract is another way that you can defeat a non-compete agreement. If your employer did not fulfill the employment contract terms, they likely can't force you to stick to a non-compete agreement. This is known as a material breach.
Illinois courts generally disfavor non-competes as a restraint of trade. However, Illinois courts enforce non- compete agreements if they are: Reasonable. Supported by adequate consideration.
The Illinois Freedom to Work Act puts other limits on these agreements. Non-compete agreements cannot be used if an employee earns less than $75,000 per year. (Note: this salary baseline increases in 2027 and in 5 year periods after that.)
How To Legally Get Out of a Non-Compete Agreement Get a New Job That Doesn't Involve Competitive Activities. Prove That Your Former Employer Breached the Contract. Argue That the Non-Compete Provision Isn't Enforceable. Show That Your Previous Employer Has No Legitimate Business Interests.
compete agreement entered into on or after January 1, 2022, is void unless: The employee receives adequate consideration. The agreement is ancillary to a valid employment relationship. The agreement is no greater than is required for the protection of a legitimate business interest of the employer.