Non-Compete Agreements
Non-compete agreements are generally looked upon unfavorably in Pennsylvania, but are still enforceable. On November 27, 2017 a House Bill 1938 was introduced in the Pennsylvania House which, if passed and signed into law, would ban most non-compete agreements entered into after the effective date of the law, while providing certain protections to employees who signed non-compete agreements prior to the effective date of the law. However, HB 1938 is not currently the law. So how do you protect yourself now? Will a non-compete prevent you from working if you voluntarily quit? What if you are discharged? What if the discharge is itself unlawful? Will accepting a new job violate the terms of the non-compete? What are your options? Obviously, the best time to have a non-compete agreement, or any contract, reviewed is prior to signing. If you are presented with a non-compete agreement by an employer during employment, or by a prospective employer at hire, you should review it carefully and make sure you understand all of the terms prior to signing. If you have any questions you should contact an experienced PA Non-Compete Lawyer.
Non-compete agreement questions arise in a variety of ways, including:
- When presented at hire as a condition of employment
- As a new “policy” implemented during employment that employees are asked to sign
- In considering subsequent offers of employment
- Upon notice from a former employer alleging breach or violation of a previously executed non-compete
Irrespective of how the issue presents itself, it is important to seek legal counsel to protect yourself.
Have you been presented with a non-compete agreement by a current or prospective employer?
Have you received notice from a former employer alleging violation of a previously executed non-compete?
If so, contact a PA non-compete lawyer. Pennsylvania employment lawyer Bruce Preissman is available for consultation to review your non-compete and discuss your concerns.