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Non-Compete Agreement Lawyers in Los Angeles
California has some of the strongest protections against non-compete agreements in the nation. If your employer is trying to enforce a non-compete or restrict your ability to work, our attorneys can help you understand your rights and fight back.
Schedule a free consultation today to discuss your non-compete issue with a trusted Los Angeles attorney.
Are Non-Compete Agreements Enforceable in California?
In California, non-compete agreements are generally void and unenforceable under Business and Professions Code section 16600, which provides that every contract by which anyone is restrained from engaging in a lawful profession, trade, or business is void. This has been California law for over a century, and recent legislation has strengthened these protections even further.
In 2023, California enacted SB 699 and AB 1076, which expanded non-compete protections in several important ways. SB 699 makes it unlawful for an employer to enter into or attempt to enforce a non-compete agreement regardless of where it was signed. AB 1076 codified existing case law and required employers to notify current and former employees by February 14, 2024, that any non-compete clauses in their agreements are void.
Despite California’s strong ban, some employers still include non-compete language in employment agreements, threaten departing employees with legal action, or try to enforce non-competes from other states. These practices violate California law, and employees have legal remedies.
At Novian & Novian, our non-compete agreement attorneys help employees challenge unlawful non-compete restrictions, defend against enforcement actions by former employers, and pursue damages when employers violate California’s anti-non-compete statutes.
How Can a Non-Compete Agreement Lawyer Help?
A non-compete agreement lawyer helps employees understand whether restrictive covenants in their employment agreements are enforceable under California law and takes action when employers attempt to unlawfully restrict their right to work.
Our non-compete attorneys at Novian & Novian review your employment agreements, determine the enforceability of any restrictive covenants under California law, communicate with your former employer to cease enforcement efforts, and if necessary, litigate to protect your right to pursue your livelihood. We also advise on the narrow exceptions to California’s non-compete ban.
If your employer is trying to enforce a non-compete agreement against you, contact Novian & Novian for a free consultation. Our Los Angeles attorneys will protect your right to work.
What Our Clients Say
“My former employer sent a cease-and-desist letter threatening to enforce a non-compete clause. Novian & Novian responded forcefully citing California law and the threats stopped immediately.”
— Former Client, Los Angeles
“I moved to California from Texas where I had signed a non-compete. Novian & Novian explained that California law protects me regardless of where the agreement was signed. They gave me peace of mind.”
— Former Client, Pasadena
“Novian & Novian helped me negotiate the removal of an overbroad non-compete from my employment agreement before I signed. Their proactive approach saved me from potential problems down the road.”
— Former Client, Century City
Why Should You Choose Novian & Novian for Your Non-Compete Matter?
Novian & Novian has been advising employees on non-compete issues across California for over 35 years. We have deep knowledge of Business and Professions Code section 16600, SB 699, AB 1076, and the narrow exceptions to California’s non-compete ban.
Our attorneys understand the anxiety that comes with being threatened by a former employer. We provide clear, confident guidance and take decisive action to protect your right to earn a living.
Deep Knowledge of California’s Non-Compete Ban
We are experts in Section 16600, SB 699, AB 1076, and the limited exceptions. We know exactly when non-competes are void and how to challenge them.
Experience Defeating Enforcement Attempts
We have successfully defended employees against non-compete enforcement actions from employers in California and other states. We know the strategies employers use and how to beat them.
Proactive Contract Review
We review employment agreements before you sign to identify and negotiate the removal of unenforceable non-compete clauses and other problematic restrictive covenants.
No Fees Unless We Win on Damages Claims
For cases involving damages from unlawful non-compete enforcement, we offer contingency fee arrangements. You pay nothing unless we recover for you.
Protecting Your Right to Work
Your ability to pursue your profession is fundamental. We fight aggressively to ensure no employer can unlawfully restrict your career.
FAQs
Below are answers to some of the most common questions:
Are All Non-Compete Agreements Void in California?
Yes, with very narrow exceptions. Business and Professions Code section 16600 voids contracts restraining anyone from engaging in a lawful profession. The only recognized exceptions involve the sale of a business (goodwill provisions), dissolution of a partnership, or dissolution of an LLC. Employment non-competes are void.
What About Non-Solicitation and Non-Disclosure Agreements?
Non-solicitation agreements that effectively function as non-competes may also be void under California law. Non-disclosure agreements protecting legitimate trade secrets are generally enforceable, but they cannot be used as de facto non-competes. The distinction is fact-specific.
What If My Non-Compete Was Signed in Another State?
Under SB 699, it is unlawful for any employer to enforce or attempt to enforce a non-compete against a California employee regardless of where the agreement was signed. California’s policy against non-competes applies to workers in the state.
Can My Former Employer Sue Me for Competing?
Your former employer cannot successfully enforce a non-compete in California. If they sue you, you may have defenses and counterclaims — including claims for attorney fees and damages for the unlawful enforcement attempt.
What Should I Do If My Employer Threatens Non-Compete Enforcement?
Do not panic. Contact an employment attorney immediately. In most cases, the non-compete is void under California law, and your attorney can communicate this to your former employer and take legal action if necessary.
Did California's 2023 Laws Change Anything?
SB 699 and AB 1076 (effective January 1, 2024) strengthened the existing ban by making it unlawful to enter into or enforce non-competes regardless of where signed, requiring employers to notify employees that non-compete clauses are void, and providing additional remedies for workers.
Being Restricted by a Non-Compete? Know Your California Rights.
Our Los Angeles non-compete agreement attorneys protect your right to work under California law. Contact Novian & Novian for a free consultation today.
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