The amendments expanded restrictions on the use of nondisclosure provisions (“NDAs”) in certain workplace settlement agreements. These amendments, which took effect on November 17, 2023, apply to all agreements entered into after that date.
NDAs are enforceable when they are signed — if they are properly drafted and executed. NDAs are enforceable once signed, provided they have been drafted and executed properly. Unilateral NDAs need only the signature of the receiving party, whereas mutual non-disclosure agreements need the signatures of both parties.
NDAs that prevent people from speaking about any of these acts usually do not hold up in court, even if they are otherwise valid. Similarly, California courts will not enforce an NDA if the information it seeks to protect is already known to the public or is illegal in nature.
Most NDAs last for as long as the agreement states in its terms, and can be for as long as the parties agree. This is particularly important for trade secrets, which have no registration-type protections and can only be protected for as long as they are kept secret.
Employee NDAs are generally legal in New York, but there are several limits and obligations employers should be aware of. The best practices below will make your non-disclosure agreement more immune from challenge in court.
NDAs are enforceable when they are signed — if they are properly drafted and executed. NDAs are enforceable once signed, provided they have been drafted and executed properly. Unilateral NDAs need only the signature of the receiving party, whereas mutual non-disclosure agreements need the signatures of both parties.
Creating legal risks: NDAs can create legal risks for both parties, particularly if the terms of the agreement are too broad or if the agreement is not properly enforced. If the NDA is breached or is found to be unenforceable, the parties may face legal liability and reputational damage.
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.
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.
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.