In many employment agreements that contain a non-competition clause, there is often a non-solicitation of clients clause, as well. A clause for non-solicitation of clients essentially prohibits former employees from stealing or poaching their employer’s business clients. As with non-competition agreements, Missouri law places strict guidelines on the use of non-solicitation of clients clauses.
HKM Employment Attorneys LLP in St. Louis have demonstrated knowledge and skill in the arena of non-solicitation of clients clauses and other restrictive covenants. With a broad reach stretching across the United States, HKM Employment Attorneys have the gravitas necessary to go to battle against even the largest corporations. If you are a worker and need legal help with a non-solicitation of clients agreement, please feel free to contact us as soon as possible for assistance.
Limitations on Non-Solicitation of Clients Agreements in Missouri
Over the course of years of judicial decisions, the Missouri courts have refined a series of guidelines for restrictive covenants, including non-solicitation of clients agreements. At this point, the Missouri courts require both non-competition and non-solicitation clauses to be reasonable in scope, time, and geography.
Concerning the non-solicitation of clients, specifically, employers have a recognized, legitimate business interest in protecting their client base. As a result, a non-solicitation of clients agreement may contain certain vague or broad terms. For example, a Missouri employer may restrict former employees from soliciting clients in any geography. But the non-solicitation clause must limit the scope and timeframe of the restriction.
Overall, Missouri laws and judicial decisions only provide guidelines for the construction of an agreement for the non-solicitation of clients. Consequently, it can be problematic to draw overarching generalizations about such agreements. To fully grasp the boundaries and enforceability of any non-solicitation agreement, it is advisable to seek out the assistance of an accomplished attorney.
Client Assets Covered by a Non-Solicitation Clause in Missouri
Under Missouri law, a non-solicitation of clients agreement can protect certain intangible aspects of customer dealings. Namely, employers can use non-solicitation agreements to safeguard client relationships, goodwill, and loyalty, thus protecting valuable and legitimate business interests.
Overall, a non-solicitation of clients clause prevents former employees from leveraging client information to the detriment of the former employer. This applies whether the former employee benefits personally or enriches a competitor. Generally speaking, non-solicitation of clients can apply to any client relationships, goodwill, or loyalty that the former employee gained in the course of his or her employment.
Speak With a St. Louis Non-Solicitation Lawyer Today
If you are a former employee reeling from the restrictions of a non-solicitation of clients agreement, it is imperative to analyze the precise language of the document. Missouri law protects workers from unreasonably restrictive agreements. With proper analysis, you may be able to challenge the validity of the non-solicitation of clients agreements in court. In such situations, HKM Employment Attorneys can help you organize all of the details, analyze your case, and work to maximize your chance for recovery. Contact us today to start moving in the right direction.
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