California Non-Compete Agreement Lawyers

Most Non-Compete Agreements Are Not Enforceable in California

If your employer is trying to restrict your right to work after leaving a job, we can help. California law generally makes non-compete clauses void and unenforceable.

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Know the Law

California Strongly Limits Non-Compete Clauses

Under California Business and Professions Code § 16600, non-compete agreements are typically not valid. Employers cannot legally prevent employees from working for a competitor or starting their own business after leaving a job, with very few exceptions.

Common issues involving non-compete clauses include:

  • Being told you can’t work in your industry for a period of time 
  • Receiving threats of legal action for taking a new job 
  • Non-solicitation or confidentiality agreements disguised as non-competes 
  • Employer demands during exit interviews about future employment 
  • Being pressured to sign a restrictive agreement when hired or promoted 

California courts usually reject non-compete provisions, even if you signed one, and regardless of how the employer frames it. However, many employees are unaware of their rights and may feel pressured not to pursue better opportunities.

At Employee Lawyers, we help workers understand their contracts, protect their right to work freely, and push back when employers use unlawful restrictions.

How We Help

Legal Support for Challenging or Negotiating Non-Competes

We represent workers across California who have been affected by overly restrictive job agreements. Whether your employer is threatening to enforce a non-compete or you want help reviewing a contract before you sign it, we can help you protect your rights.

We assist with:

  • Reviewing and negotiating employment contracts 
  • Challenging unlawful restrictions on future work 
  • Responding to cease-and-desist letters 
  • Clarifying your rights before changing jobs 
  • Preventing interference with new employment opportunities 

Why clients choose us:

  • Experienced employment attorneys, not just contract reviewers 
  • Direct legal guidance, not filtered through staff 
  • No upfront fees for enforcement disputes — we only get paid if we win 
  • Services available in English and Spanish 

California workers have the right to take their skills elsewhere. If your former employer is trying to control your future, we’re here to protect your freedom to work.

We Take Employment Law Personally

Direct Attorney Access

From day one, you’ll speak with a real attorney who understands your case and guides you through every step.

Selective Case Intake

We only take on cases where we know we can make a difference. That means more focus and firepower for every client.

Employment Law Focus

From harassment and discrimination to complex class actions, we know California labor law and how to apply it.

Proven Litigation Experience

We’ve gone up against major corporations and defense firms. We build strong cases and fight smart.

Community-Driven Practice

We care about the people we serve and give back through support of local organizations and workers’ causes.

Bilingual
Legal Support

We offer legal services in both English and Spanish to better serve our community.

Who We Are

Driven by Values.
Focused on Results.

Employee Lawyers is a California-based law firm focused on protecting workers from discrimination, harassment, wrongful termination, and other job-related violations. 

Our team combines big-firm experience with the personal attention of a boutique practice. We take a selective, client-first approach. Every client gets direct access to their attorney, honest guidance, and a strategy built around results.

Client Stories

California Employees We’ve Helped


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