Fighting a Non Compete Agreement in Ohio

Non-compete agreements are becoming more and more common in today`s job market. These agreements are typically put in place to protect businesses from competitors, but they can also limit an employee`s ability to work in their chosen field. If you find yourself facing a non-compete agreement in Ohio, there are steps you can take to fight it.

First, it`s important to understand what a non-compete agreement is and what it can do. A non-compete agreement is a legal contract that prohibits an employee from working for a competitor for a certain period of time after leaving their current job. This type of agreement is often used in industries where the employee has access to sensitive information or trade secrets. In Ohio, non-compete agreements are binding as long as they are reasonable in scope and duration.

So, what can you do if you`ve signed a non-compete agreement and want to work for a competitor? The first step is to review the agreement with an experienced attorney. They can help you understand the language of the agreement and determine if it is enforceable. If the agreement is overly restrictive or unfair, your attorney may be able to negotiate with your former employer to modify or nullify the agreement.

If negotiations aren`t successful, the next step is to challenge the agreement in court. In Ohio, courts will only enforce non-compete agreements if they are reasonable in scope, duration, and geographic area. If the agreement goes beyond what is necessary to protect the employer`s interests, a court may find it unenforceable.

Another potential argument against enforcing a non-compete agreement is if the employee was terminated without cause. If an employer terminates an employee without a valid reason, it could be argued that the non-compete agreement is void.

It`s important to note that fighting a non-compete agreement in court can be a lengthy and expensive process. However, if you believe the agreement is preventing you from working in your chosen field, it may be worth pursuing.

In conclusion, non-compete agreements are becoming more common in Ohio, but they can be challenged if they are overly restrictive or unreasonable. Working with an experienced attorney and understanding your rights can help you fight a non-compete agreement and pursue the career path you desire.