Restrictive covenants

If you need guidance on restrictive covenants, our lawyers are on hand to assist you.

Generally, a restrictive covenant in your employment contract will only be enforceable if it goes no further than necessary to protect the legitimate interests of your employer. There are various factors that the Courts consider in determining enforceability such as your level of seniority, the length of the restriction, your employer’s type of business, your access to clients and confidential information and the relevant geographical area.

You may be about to sign a new employment contract and are concerned about an onerous non-compete restriction in the contract which could cause you problems later down the line. 

You could, for instance, be on the cusp of resigning but are unsure about a restrictive covenant precluding you from dealing with your employer’s clients for a certain length of time. 

You and other members of your team may be planning to move to a competitor but have restrictions prohibiting you from soliciting staff of your employer for a specific period. 

Whatever your situation, we can advise you on all the legal and practical considerations.

For any queries on restrictive covenants please do not hesitate to get in touch.

MATT GINGELL

PARTNER

Matt is the founder of Lombards and advises employers and employees on all aspects of employment law. Matt has built up exceptional experience and knowledge from his time at leading employment law firms, including at a well-known City employment law firm. Matt is an accomplished legal commentator, regularly appearing on Sky News to talk about employment law issues that affect both employers and employees and his employment law articles are featured in The Guardian and The Independent.

Email:    mg@lombards.co.uk