When an individual faces a loss of employment, he or she may choose to pursue future work in a similar field. However, if a contract is in place to prevent one from pursuing work with a rival, previous employers in Florida and elsewhere may wish to block such a move to protect their business interests, which can lead to complex noncompete disputes. A behavioral health agency in another state is reportedly seeking a restraining order against a former employee, claiming that her new position is in violation of her noncompete agreement.

The woman was previously employed as CEO at Zepf Center, and was released in relation to allegations of misconduct. The company claims that she sought a position with Empowered For Excellence, which is a rival business that is located a short distance from her previous employer. According to Zepf, this move was in violation of a noncompete agreement, which states that she cannot work for a competing agency within 25 miles for up to 12 months after leaving the company.

The company also claims that following the move, several clinicians followed her lead and left the company to work for Empowered For Excellence. The woman asserts she had no part in their decisions, and did not attempt to recruit them in any way. She also claims that she did not take any confidential information or trade secrets with her upon leaving.

Noncompete disputes can be hotly contested topics, and they can also be highly intricate. When facing a similar situation, one could consider speaking with an experienced attorney for advice on the best way to approach the situation. An attorney can evaluate the agreement and assist a client in Florida in pursuing the best outcome possible through the necessary channels.

Source: toledoblade.com, “Zepf Center seeks to stop ex-CEO from working at competitor“, Jennifer Feehan, Oct. 4, 2017