Violations of Non-Compete Agreements

Non-compete agreements — also called restrictive covenants or covenants not to compete — can have a significant impact on your career, your ability to earn a living, and your freedom to work where you choose. Whether you signed a non-compete when you were hired, were asked to sign one mid-employment, or are facing threats from a former employer who claims you violated one, understanding the law governing these agreements is essential. At Klie Law Offices, our employment law attorneys help employees and former employees throughout West Virginia and Ohio navigate non-compete disputes and protect their right to work.

We handle non-compete cases from our offices in Buckhannon, Clarksburg, Morgantown, Parkersburg, and Canton, Ohio.

Ohio courts follow a similar reasonableness analysis but have developed some distinct standards. Ohio enforces non-competes when the restraint is no greater than necessary to protect the employer’s legitimate business interests, when it does not impose an undue hardship on the employee, and when it is not injurious to the public. Ohio courts recognize protectable interests including trade secrets, confidential business information, customer relationships, and specialized training provided at the employer’s expense.

Ohio is also a blue-pencil state, meaning courts can modify unreasonable restrictions rather than voiding the entire agreement. Ohio courts have been somewhat more willing than some other jurisdictions to enforce non-competes, which makes understanding the specific terms of your agreement and the applicable case law important. Our Canton office attorneys are experienced in evaluating and litigating non-compete disputes under Ohio law.