As previously reported (Dentons Alert), the US Federal Trade Commission (“FTC”) issued a regulation earlier this year that effectively bans most non-competes for employees and independent contractors (the “FTC Rule”). The effective date of the FTC Rule is September 4, 2024.
The ban covers all non-competes for U.S. workers (including employees and independent contractors) with limited carve-outs, and is subject to certain exceptions based on the FTC's statutory authority.
Independent contractors are not entitled to benefits from the company, such as health insurance or retirement, and are ineligible for unemployment benefits. Independent contractors are even exempt from employment discrimination laws governing wages and hours worked.
Florida Statutes §542.335 (1) provides that the “enforcement of contracts that restrict or prohibit competition during or after the term of restrictive covenants, so long as such contracts are reasonable in time, area, and line of business, is not prohibited.”
Every state has its own law regarding the use of non-competes. For example, in California, they are deemed illegal, except when selling a business or a shareholder's stock or dissolution of a partnership; while in Florida, they are allowed but are subject to strict scrutiny.
Every state has its own law regarding the use of non-competes. For example, in California, they are deemed illegal, except when selling a business or a shareholder's stock or dissolution of a partnership; while in Florida, they are allowed but are subject to strict scrutiny.
Non-compete Agreements in Florida Typical non-compete restrictions include but are not limited to, limitations on a former employee's right to: Work for an employer's competitor. Start a competing business. Solicit clients or resources that belong to the employer, including other employees or contractors.
Any restrictive covenant not supported by a legitimate business interest is unlawful and is void and unenforceable.
As previously reported (Dentons Alert), the US Federal Trade Commission (“FTC”) issued a regulation earlier this year that effectively bans most non-competes for employees and independent contractors (the “FTC Rule”). The effective date of the FTC Rule is September 4, 2024.
Add information about the parties involved. Describe the terms of the Non-Compete Agreement, such as the length and area of the restriction. If necessary, you can include a non-solicitation clause. Add a confidentiality clause.