CIVIL Litigation Employment & Trade Secret Litigation

The nature of employment relationships, and the law relating thereto, is evolving at a rapid pace. Increasingly, employers want to dissuade competition while protecting their trade secrets. On the other hand, hard working employees want to develop the skills and contacts necessary to be successful in business.

"Non compete" agreements are becoming more and more common as businesses develop expertise in their particular fields and the network of contacts necessary to be successful. On the other hand, inexperienced workers desire to learn and to have transferable skills in the event the relationship ultimately does not work out.

In addition to employment contracts containing such agreements, many states have statutory structures in place to protect the employer. For example, North Carolina has enacted the Uniform Trade Secrets Protection Act and also proscribes "unfair and deceptive trade practices" which includes unfair competition. In short, employers have many tools at their disposal if they wish to protect their interests.

Generally, employees desire to work hard, learn their industry and become the best employee they can. However, they want to have the freedom to earn a living elsewhere should the relationship not work out. In many instances, courts will not enforce "non compete" provisions that they deem to be overly broad or otherwise unreasonable.

Andresen & Arronte is experienced in handling employment related litigation on behalf of both employers and employees. If you have questions or concerns involving employment related litigation, contact Andresen & Arronte.