In Ohio, employers have the ability to include non-compete clauses in employment contracts as long as certain criteria are met. Generally, a non-compete clause will be enforceable if it is deemed reasonable in terms of geographical reach and duration.
If you have signed a non-compete agreement with your former employer, it may prevent you from working for a competitor for a set period of time, and within a certain distance from your former employer’s business location. This means that if you are looking for work at a competitor, you may be prevented from doing so depending on the terms of the agreement.
Ohio courts have generally favored a more balanced approach when assessing the enforceability of non-compete agreements. In this regard, courts are more likely to enforce an agreement that is narrowly tailored to protect the employer’s trade secrets, confidential information, or customer relationships, and only to the extent necessary to protect these interests.
If you were not subject to a non-compete agreement or your agreement was deemed unreasonable, your former employer cannot prevent you from working for a competitor. In Ohio, the law generally favors employee mobility and the right to work for whom they choose.
If you have concerns about a non-compete agreement that you have signed or have questions about whether you are eligible to work for a competitor, it is recommended that you consult with a licensed attorney who can provide you with accurate and personalized legal advice based on your specific situation.
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