How to Get Out of a Non Solicitation Agreement

As a copy editor, I have come across many professionals who find themselves stuck in a non-solicitation agreement with their current employer. Non-solicitation agreements are legal contracts that prohibit an employee from soliciting their employer`s clients or employees if they leave the company. These agreements are commonly used to protect a company`s interests and prevent their employees from taking valuable customers or trade secrets with them when they leave.

However, sometimes employees may find themselves wanting to break out of the non-solicitation agreement. There could be several reasons for this, including a desire to start their own business or a better opportunity with a competitor.

If you find yourself in this situation, here are some ways to get out of a non-solicitation agreement:

1. Review the Agreement

The first step in getting out of a non-solicitation agreement is to review the agreement itself. Look for any clauses that may limit the scope of the agreement or any language that may be overly broad or ambiguous. If there are any such clauses, you may be able to challenge the agreement in court.

2. Seek Legal Advice

It is always advisable to seek legal advice before trying to get out of a non-solicitation agreement. An experienced attorney can help you understand your legal rights and options and advise you on the best course of action. They can also help you negotiate with your employer or represent you in court if necessary.

3. Negotiate with your Employer

In some cases, you may be able to negotiate with your employer to modify or terminate the non-solicitation agreement. This is more likely to be successful if you have been a valuable employee and have a good relationship with your employer. It is important to approach the negotiation in a professional and respectful manner.

4. Wait for the Agreement to Expire

Non-solicitation agreements typically have a limited duration, usually ranging from six months to two years. If the agreement is close to expiring, you can wait until it does before soliciting any clients or employees.

5. Challenge the Agreement in Court

If all else fails, you may need to challenge the non-solicitation agreement in court. This can be a lengthy and costly process, so it should be the last resort. However, if you believe that the agreement is unfair or overly restrictive, it may be worth pursuing legal action.

In conclusion, getting out of a non-solicitation agreement can be challenging, but it is not impossible. By reviewing the agreement, seeking legal advice, negotiating with your employer, waiting for the agreement to expire, or challenging it in court, you can increase your chances of success. It is important to remember that violating a non-solicitation agreement can have serious legal consequences, so it is always better to seek legal advice before taking any action.