An NDA could be unenforceable if it is too broad, is not for a defined time period, covers information that is not confidential, or asks for illegal conduct.
20 CFR § 603.5 - What are the exceptions to the confidentiality requirement? (a) Public domain information. (b) UC appeals records. (c) Individual or employer. (d) Informed consent. (1) Agent—to one who acts for or in the place of an individual or an employer by the authority of that individual or employer if—
A lawyer can help you determine if your NDA can be challenged. Determine if your content is “public domain.” If the content your NDA covers is now known by the public, you may be able to make a case to nullify your NDA from any specific issuer.
To get out of an NDA, you have to be sure that it is legally binding. For example, you cannot be liable for an NDA that covers up illegal activity by the issuer. A lawyer can help you assess your risks and determine how you should move forward.
Setting an unrealistic duration or harsh restrictive terms, like an NDA that lasts a lifetime, can invalidate the agreement. Similarly, having an overly broad agreement that covers information that is not confidential can result in legal complications.
Additionally, Arizona courts have held that for an NDA to be enforceable, it must be reasonable in terms of geographic scope and duration. This means the agreement should not unduly restrict an individual's ability to work or conduct business in the region.
An NDA could be unenforceable if it is too broad, is not for a defined time period, covers information that is not confidential, or asks for illegal conduct.
A plaintiff can also frequently pursue an injunction as a remedy for breach of an NDA. An injunction is a court order prohibiting the defendant from further disclosing or using the proprietary information or trade secret that was the subject of the NDA.
Can you go to jail for breaking an NDA? Breaking an NDA usually doesn't result in jail time — as NDAs are civil contracts, not criminal agreements. Typically, the consequence is a breach of contract lawsuit, where the harmed party may seek financial compensation if the court rules in their favor.