Non-compete laws by state
Whether a non-compete in your employment contract can actually be enforced depends heavily on your state, the same clause can be void in one state and binding in the next. Pick your state for a plain-English summary of ClauseAudit's read on non-competes, invention assignment, and arbitration, with the governing statute.
Non-competes generally void (4)
These states make most employee non-competes unenforceable by statute.
Non-competes limited (9)
Enforceable only in narrow cases, usually above a salary threshold or with notice.
Non-competes generally enforceable (38)
Enforceable if reasonable in duration, geography, and scope.
Non-compete laws by state: FAQ
Which states ban non-compete agreements?
Employee non-competes are essentially void by statute in California, Minnesota, North Dakota, and Oklahoma. Several more, including Colorado, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, New Hampshire, Oregon, Rhode Island, Virginia, and Washington, sharply limit them, usually banning them below a salary threshold.
Are non-competes enforceable in my state?
It depends entirely on your state, and even where they are allowed, courts require them to be reasonable in duration, geography, and scope. Select your state below for a plain-English summary and the governing statute.
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Analyze your contract, from $19State law summaries are educational information, not legal advice, and statutes change frequently. Always consult a qualified attorney in your state before signing.