If You Signed a Non-Competition in Massachusetts, Know Your Rights
In Massachusetts, there are new bills pending that are in favor of employee protection and privacy rights. One such aspect pending in these bills is the common non-competition agreement. According to how the bills are progressing through the legislative process currently, it is likely that these bills may be put into law soon.
What is a Non-Compete?
So you finally landed the perfect job with great benefits and a great salary. You breathe a sigh of relief as you can finally file away your resume and hang up your best interview suit. While going over paperwork and formalities with your new employer, you might see a NCC or non-compete-clause in your contract. As you might be excited about your new job, you may sign this document without giving it much thought.
So what exactly does this non-compete-clause mean for you? When you sign a contract including an NCC, you enter into a legally binding agreement that you the employee will refrain from entering into, or starting your own, similar business, which would put you into competition with your current employer. These types of agreements often have geographical restrictions as well as time constraints, sometimes lasting for a number of years.
Why Does my Employer Want me to Sign a Contract?
If you work for a larger company that is firmly established, they may tell you that what they are trying to do is simply protect their business by protecting what they feel is their intellectual property. If you find yourself facing an agreement like that with your employer, it’s best to speak with a labor law attorney in your state to find out how you may want to proceed. In recent years, an amendment was passed that outlined new limitations that employers have to abide by when creating their non-compete agreements, but it was removed before the bill was enacted.
Have my Rights Been Violated?
With such confusing legislature, it can be really tough to keep up with how the law does protect your rights or doesn’t protect them. If you find yourself confused by any of the paperwork and contracts or agreements, you’re not alone. Often, it’s just easier to sign all the paperwork and begin your new job. It’s not until later, perhaps when your circumstances have changed that these agreements may become pesky and unfathomable. If you find yourself in a situation where you aren’t sure if you have to comply with such a contract or your employer would like you to sign one, you may want to get in touch with a contract agreements lawyer in Massachusetts before you proceed. A Massachusetts business law attorney would be able to discuss the details of your case with you at length so that you could make the best decision possible before moving forward.
Do I Need to Hire an Attorney for Employee Rights?
There’s no straightforward one size fits all answer for this. If you’ve signed a non-compete agreement already or your new employer is asking you too, you have to decide whether you are okay with it or if you feel uncomfortable with it. A reputable contract law attorney can help you decide the best course of action, if you need help deciding, contact an attorney today!
