Did you know that a strategy based upon trade secrets can protect against internal and external competition? Are you concerned an employee or even a partner or competitor will gain access to your sensitive competitive information and use it to compete against you?
Are Non-Compete Agreements a Restraint of Trade in California?
Non-compete agreements or restrictive covenants have historically been viewed under California law as a restraint of trade. If your company wishes to successfully implement a strategy in place of a non-compete agreement you will need the advice, counsel and legal services of the experienced employer defense and trade secret attorneys at the Watkins Firm.
Many small to mid-sized businesses are concerned employees or even disgruntled business partners will attempt to take what they’ve learned and ultimately compete against the company. You may have heard horror stories about California Courts in the past and their general refusal to enforce non-compete agreements here in San Diego and across Southern California. What is the best strategy to protect yourself?
Trade Secrets Can Protect Against Internal and External Competition in San Diego
It is absolutely possible to protect your client base and the legitimate business interests of your company. You may establish limitations upon access and the use of corporate resources including computers, laptops, cell phones and other internal systems which access important information about customers, suppliers, inside trade knowledge and practices as well as intellectual property and proprietary recipes.
The most effective strategy will focus upon the protection of “trade secrets” and the intellectual property of your business. Trade secrets can protect against internal and external competition in San Diego and Southern California.
There are specific steps which must be taken to clearly establish the content and nature of your company’s trade secrets and intellectual property. This includes information about customers and suppliers, marketing tactics and proprietary processes and recipes. It must be secured, properly labeled and designated and should be supported as part of employment documents such as the employee handbook and policies and procedures.
The goal of any such agreement should be to protect your organization from the misappropriation of trade secrets and use of inside proprietary customer, supplier and business practices knowledge to compete against your business.
A Sound Strategy to Protect Your Business
A sound strategy to protect your business in California should focus on the protection of trade secrets and intellectual property. Want to learn more? We invite you to review the strong recommendations of our clients and contact the Watkins Firm or call 858-535-1511 for a complimentary consultation today. Ask how our experienced business contract attorneys can work with you to develop and implement enforceable policies and protections to protects your interests.
