Riverside Non-Compete Agreement Lawyer
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Riverside Non-Compete Agreement Attorney
Have you been wronged by your employer? Please call Theory Law at (310) 500-0206 to speak with a Riverside wrongful termination attorney.
Why Choose Theory Law APC?
Contracts form the basis of business relationships and agreements. The legal team at Theory Law APC can help you understand if any agreement you sign is lawful and enforceable. Employers often use pressure or intimidation to try and make employees believe something that isn’t always true. Once you secure legal representation from our firm, we can review any contracts you sign so you understand what your obligations are.
Our firm has become a trusted name in Riverside because the concepts of justice and fairness are at the core of what we do. We understand the positive change that can happen when one person has the courage to stand up and question potentially unlawful actions by an employer. No matter what harm you suffered, we can take steps to see that you are restored both financially and with regard to your career.
Understanding Non-Compete Agreements in California
Studies have found that 29.3% of firms based in California still use Non-Compete Agreements (NCAs) for workers. Only four states, including California, currently prohibit non-compete agreements. Under California Business and Professions Code Section 16600, non-compete clauses in employment contracts are unenforceable. This protects workers from limitations on their career mobility.
Despite this legal protection, some employers still attempt to include non-compete language in contracts, creating confusion and discouraging employees from seeking new jobs. If your employer is trying to enforce an NCA, consulting an attorney can help clarify your situation. Whether you work in Downtown Riverside or elsewhere, you have the right to pursue job opportunities without unlawful restrictions.
What Are My Options After Signing a Non-Compete Agreement?
Like many employees, you may have signed a non-compete agreement under the advice of a former or current employer. At the time, you may have thought that signing the agreement meant you would have to change careers. In California, the law is clear. Most non-compete agreements are unenforceable. This means that your employer or former employer cannot prevent you from working with a competitor or starting your own business.
Many companies try to mislead workers by making them believe that they could become the target of litigation if they do not comply with the terms of the contract. Not every case is clear-cut, so you should consult with an attorney before taking any steps that could conflict with a past agreement.
How Legal Representation Can Help
Whether you work in Downtown Riverside or the Mission Grove neighborhood, signing a non-compete agreement may not be as consequential for your career as you think. The County of Riverside is home to around 21,000 businesses, and you may be surprised how many unenforceable contracts are created on any given day.
If you have signed a non-compete and your employer is threatening legal action, an attorney can help you assert your rights. A lawyer can review your contract, send a cease-and-desist letter to your employer if necessary, and ensure you are not unlawfully restricted from seeking new opportunities. If an employer retaliates against you for refusing to comply with an invalid non-compete, you may have grounds for a legal claim.
FAQs
Q: Are Non-Compete Agreements Enforceable in California?
A: In most cases, non-compete agreements are unenforceable under California law. The state prohibits employers from restricting employees’ ability to work for competitors or start similar businesses. Exceptions exist for business sales and partnerships. If an employer attempts to enforce a non-compete, legal options may be available to challenge the restriction and protect career opportunities.Q: When Is a Contract Enforceable in Court?
A: Many contracts are enforceable in court, and employees should carefully read any binding document before they sign it. It is often advisable to let an attorney review the contract as well. The language in a contract should be something you pay close attention to. If the document does not ask you to do something unlawful and doesn’t conflict with the California Business and Professions Code or other laws, it may be enforceable in court.Q: Can My Employer Restrict Me From Working for a Competitor?
A: California law prohibits employers from enforcing non-compete agreements that prevent employees from working for competitors. However, employers may impose confidentiality agreements to protect trade secrets. If an employer tries to restrict employment based on an invalid non-compete clause, an employee may have grounds to challenge the restriction and seek relief under state labor laws.Q: What Should I Do If My Employer Asks Me to Sign a Non-Compete Agreement?
A: Non-compete agreements are generally unenforceable in California. However, some contracts include restrictive clauses that may affect employment rights. Reviewing the terms carefully and seeking legal advice can help clarify potential risks. Employers cannot require non-compete agreements as a condition of employment. If pressured to sign, employees may have legal grounds to challenge the agreement and protect their career opportunities.Q: Can a Former Employer Take Legal Action Against Me for Violating a Non-Compete Agreement?
A: California law prohibits employers from enforcing non-compete agreements in most cases. However, former employers may attempt legal action based on confidentiality breaches or trade secret misappropriation. If facing legal threats related to a non-compete, consulting an attorney can help assess potential claims, defend against employer actions, and ensure compliance with applicable labor laws.Schedule Your Riverside Non-Compete Agreement Consultation Today
Non-compete agreements can impact your ability to work in your chosen field, even though they are generally unenforceable in California. If your employer is attempting to restrict your employment opportunities, you need legal guidance to understand your rights and potential options for challenging the agreement.
At Theory Law APC, we help employees navigate non-compete disputes and protect their professional futures. Whether you need to challenge an existing agreement or defend yourself against employer claims, we are here to advocate for you. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation and safeguard your career opportunities.
How Can Theory Law Help You?
If you need help regarding a legal matter and would like to discuss it with an attorney, please call (310) 500-0206 or complete and submit the e-mail form below, and the attorney will contact you.
Practice Areas
Riverside
Holding Employers Accountable
From the start of your case, Theory Law holds employers accountable by providing aggressive representation. Should it be necessary to go to court for your case, we will professionally and aggressively advocate your rights.
No FEE Gurantee
Theory Law will not charge you any attorney fees if you do not get paid a recovery for your case. Unlike some other firms, you are not charged for any case opening fees or attorney retainer fees.
Theory Law Difference
Our growth and success are in large part from putting people first. We care about you, and we are not afraid to go to trial to get you the maximum settlement. Others may leave more money on the table.