Protecting The Crown Jewels: CA Counsel on Trade Secrets and Covenants Not To Compete
California is one of a growing number of states in the union that will not enforce covenants not to compete in most employment relationships. Employers, therefore, face unique challenges to maintain market position, protect confidential information and maintain a steady workforce.
Indeed, in a time of economic challenge, enterprising employees may see an advantage to starting a competing business based on knowledge gained from, and to the detriment of, their present employer. And, in any economic climate, employers seek to hire the top talent from competitors.
CDF has built a reputation within employment law for its in-depth knowledge of trade secret issues. Our team speaks with frequency on cutting-edge trade secret court decisions in national seminars and is contacted with regularity by the media. We conduct litigation and counsel employers in all areas related to confidentiality and competition including:
- Covenants Not To Compete
- Non-Solicitation Agreements
- Non-Disclosure Agreements
- Confidentiality Agreements
- Unfair Competition
We manage matters including bet-the-company cases alleging misappropriation of trade secrets and other proprietary information that frequently intersect with computer forensics, electronic discovery, spoliation, or covering up evidence and large quantities of sensitive documents and data in state and federal courts.
How CDF Can Help Protect Your Company
Intrinsic to CDF’s counsel is how we position clients to proactively minimize litigation risks and costs.
We help clients ensure that they have enforceable employment and confidentiality agreements, policies, and procedures that do not violate California’s public policies. In addition, CDF attorneys create policies and practices to minimize the risks of misappropriation and strengthen our clients’ challenges to those that do attempt to compete unfairly.
During the recruitment and/or hiring process, we create structures and practices that prevent clients from mistakenly taking on unnecessary additional risks in this rapidly evolving area.
Prompt action is often required in these matters and experienced trade secret lawyers are residents in every CDF office. And, we are available to conveniently consult with our clients at their office locations to maximize resources.
For more information about the services that CDF can provide, please contact Dan M. Forman, Chair of CDF's Trade Secret Practice Group.