Noncompete agreements are not viewed favorably under North Carolina law. Explore the enforceability of North Carolina non-compete agreements, focusing on the "blue-pencil" rule and reasonable time and territory limits.A noncompete agreement is a legal document that restricts your ability to work for a competing business after leaving your current job. Our law firm explains how under North Carolina law, your employment non-compete agreement may be invalid or you could be entitled to further compensation. Our guide helps you understand North Carolina noncompete law and when noncompete agreements are binding (and when they're not). Navigate the complexities of non-compete agreements with expert insights and legal strategies to protect your business interests and career progress. Under the final Noncompete Rule, the FTC adopts a comprehensive ban on new noncompetes with all workers, including senior executives. Under North Carolina contract law, a noncompete or other restrictive covenant must have a valid purpose, such as protecting trade secrets. Under North Carolina contract law, a noncompete or other restrictive covenant must have a valid purpose, such as protecting trade secrets. In other words, a non-compete cannot bar the employee from working in competition with the employer permanently.