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Make edits, fill in missing information, and update formatting in US Legal Forms—just like you would in MS Word.

Download a copy, print it, send it by email, or mail it via USPS—whatever works best for your next step.

Sign and collect signatures with our SignNow integration. Send to multiple recipients, set reminders, and more. Go Premium to unlock E-Sign.

If this form requires notarization, complete it online through a secure video call—no need to meet a notary in person or wait for an appointment.

We protect your documents and personal data by following strict security and privacy standards.
As with many things, however, California is different. California law explicitly voids all non-compete agreements for employees and independent contractors. These agreements are simply not enforceable, no matter how reasonable they may seem.
AB 5 requires the application of the “ABC test” to determine if workers in California are employees or independent contractors for purposes of the Labor Code, the Unemployment Insurance Code, and the Industrial Welfare Commission (IWC) wage orders.
An employee can challenge a restrictive covenant if they believe it is unreasonable or prevents them from finding suitable employment. If the covenant is too broad or not essential to protecting the employer's business, it may be deemed unenforceable by the courts.
Recently, Governor Gavin Newsom signed two bills into law that amend the California Business and Professions Code to further strengthen California's laws against restrictive covenants. Effective January 1, 2024, the ban on virtually all non-compete clauses is now codified.
For example, California Labor Code Section 2870 (as discussed above and which has counterparts in a number of other states) seeks to protect employees and independent contractors by imposing limits on invention assignments.
In California, the relationship between businesses and independent contractors is subject to strict legal standards. As of January 1, 2025, having a written contract with certain types of independent contractors is required by law.
11 - What difference does it make if a worker is an employee rather than an independent contractor? California's wage and hour laws (e.g., minimum wage, overtime, meal periods and rest breaks, etc.), workplace safety laws, unemployment insurance, and retaliation laws protect employees, but not independent contractors.
A noncompete agreement has the ability to threaten your future job prospects, prohibit you from using your hard earned skills and compromise your livelihood. Fortunately, it is unlawful for an employer to enforce non-compete agreements in California.