It’s one of the most frustrating moments for a business owner. A trusted employee leaves, and within weeks your best clients are getting calls from a competitor. Sometimes a customer list or pricing file went with them.
Restrictive covenants
Florida enforces non-compete, non-solicitation and confidentiality agreements when they are in writing, signed, reasonable in time and area, and protect a legitimate business interest such as trade secrets or customer relationships. Florida’s rules here are friendlier to employers than many states’.
Trade secret protection
Even without a non-compete, the Florida Uniform Trade Secrets Act can protect information like customer lists, pricing and processes, if you took reasonable steps to keep it confidential.
Interference with your business
If someone knowingly and unfairly interferes with your client relationships, you may have a claim for damages.
Act quickly
- Preserve the employee’s computer, phone and email account; don’t wipe them
- Collect the agreements they signed
- Write down which clients were contacted and when
- Talk to a lawyer about an injunction. Courts can order the conduct to stop, but delay can weaken that request
Plan ahead
Review your employee agreements and how you protect confidential files. A short checkup now can save a lawsuit later.
Our business litigation attorneys handle trade secret, non-compete and business interference cases for Jacksonville companies.
Have questions about your situation? Call (904) 632-2424 or contact us online for a free consultation. Trusted to fight the hard cases since 1974.
This article is general information, not legal advice. Reading it does not create an attorney-client relationship.
