Free  Non-compete Agreement Template for Pennsylvania Make My Non-compete Agreement Online

Free Non-compete Agreement Template for Pennsylvania

A Pennsylvania Non-compete Agreement form is a legal document that restricts an employee's ability to work for competitors after leaving a job. This agreement aims to protect a company's confidential information and trade secrets. Understanding the nuances of this form is essential for both employers and employees to ensure fair practices and compliance with state laws.

Form Sample

Pennsylvania Non-Compete Agreement

This Non-Compete Agreement ("Agreement") is entered into as of by and between , a company organized under the laws of Pennsylvania with its principal place of business at ("Company"), and residing at ("Employee").

WHEREAS, the Company desires to protect its confidential information and goodwill by restricting the Employee's ability to compete after termination of employment, and the Employee agrees to abide by these restrictions under the terms of this Agreement.

1. Non-Compete Clause

The Employee agrees that during the term of employment and for a period of months after termination, whether voluntary or involuntary, the Employee shall not directly or indirectly:

  • Engage in any business that competes with the Company.
  • Solicit or attempt to solicit any customers or clients of the Company.
  • Recruit or attempt to recruit any employees of the Company.

2. Geographic Scope

This non-compete restriction applies within the following geographic area: .

3. Reasonableness

The Employee acknowledges that the scope and duration of this Agreement are reasonable and necessary to protect the Company's legitimate business interests.

4. Confidential Information

The Employee agrees to hold in confidence and not disclose any confidential information obtained during employment.

5. Governing Law

This Agreement shall be governed by the laws of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

6. Severability

If any provision of this Agreement is found unenforceable, the remaining provisions shall still apply.

7. Entire Agreement

This document constitutes the entire Agreement between the parties regarding its subject matter and supersedes all prior discussions and agreements.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have executed this Non-Compete Agreement as of the day and year first above written.

Company: ______________________

Employee: ______________________

Misconceptions

Non-compete agreements are often misunderstood. Here are five common misconceptions about the Pennsylvania Non-compete Agreement form.

  1. Non-compete agreements are always enforceable.

    This is not true. In Pennsylvania, non-compete agreements must be reasonable in duration, geographic scope, and the type of work restricted. Courts will not enforce agreements that are overly broad or unfairly limit a person's ability to work.

  2. All employees must sign a non-compete agreement.

    Not every employee is required to sign a non-compete agreement. Employers often reserve these agreements for key employees, such as executives or those with access to sensitive information. Regular employees may not need to sign one.

  3. Non-compete agreements can last indefinitely.

    This is a misconception. Pennsylvania courts typically favor agreements that have a reasonable time limit. An indefinite duration is likely to be deemed unenforceable.

  4. Signing a non-compete means you cannot work in your field at all.

    While a non-compete may restrict certain types of employment, it does not necessarily prevent all work in the same field. The specifics of the agreement dictate what is permissible.

  5. Employers can change the terms of a non-compete agreement at any time.

    This is incorrect. Once an employee signs a non-compete agreement, any changes typically require mutual consent. Employers cannot unilaterally alter the terms without the employee's agreement.

Key takeaways

Filling out and using the Pennsylvania Non-compete Agreement form is an important step for both employers and employees. Here are some key takeaways to keep in mind:

  1. Understand the Purpose: A non-compete agreement helps protect a business's interests by preventing employees from working for competitors or starting a competing business for a specified period after leaving the company.
  2. Know the Limitations: In Pennsylvania, non-compete agreements must be reasonable in duration, geographic area, and scope of activity. Courts may not enforce overly broad agreements.
  3. Consider the Employee's Role: The necessity and enforceability of a non-compete agreement often depend on the employee's position. Higher-level employees may have more restrictions than entry-level workers.
  4. Document Everything: Clearly outline the terms of the agreement, including the duration and geographic limits. Ensure that both parties sign and date the document to avoid future disputes.
  5. Seek Legal Guidance: It’s wise to consult with a lawyer when drafting or signing a non-compete agreement. They can help ensure that the agreement is fair and enforceable under Pennsylvania law.

More Non-compete Agreement State Forms