NDAs generally will only be enforced if the enforcing party can show: (1) the existence of a trade secret or other confidential information; (2) that the trade secret or confidential information was acquired improperly or as a result of a confidential relationship; and (3) that there was actual or threatened ...
If both parties under the NDA were signing as sole proprietors, you have to ensure that both your full names are stated clearly. If you wanted to ensure that there would be no doubt about who the parties were, then you could add identification information such as addresses or social security numbers.
You do not need a lawyer to create and sign a non-disclosure agreement. However, if the information you are trying to protect is important enough to warrant an NDA, you may want to have the document reviewed by someone with legal expertise.
Both parties must enter into the NDA voluntarily and with a clear understanding of its terms. If there was coercion or deception involved, the agreement may not be valid.
At the top, there are three types, unilateral, bilateral, and multilateral NDAs. The rest of the specific NDA types fall under these three categories. Most are based on who has to sign the NDA. Not all NDAs are created equally, and they can only demand so much secrecy from strangers when compared to their employees.
Indeed, the potential client may well get you to sign an NDA yourself, to protect any business secrets they indulge during your pitch. So by presenting them with an NDA of your own, and making a strong case for them to sign it, you're actually conveying your seriousness and raising your authority overall.
Edit the template to include a description of the confidential information and the scope of the agreement. Add the requirements of each party. Add the specific consequences of a breach. Add the details of all involved parties and send the agreement for electronic signing.
The key elements of Non-Disclosure Agreements: Identification of the parties. Definition of what is deemed to be confidential. The scope of the confidentiality obligation by the receiving party. The exclusions from confidential treatment. The term of the agreement.
California courts may refuse to enforce non-disclosure agreements that are overly broad or vague in their terms. NDAs should have a clear description of the purpose, parties, and duration they cover.
You do not need a lawyer to create and sign a non-disclosure agreement. However, if the information you are trying to protect is important enough to warrant an NDA, you may want to have the document reviewed by someone with legal expertise.