Cook County Non-Solicitation Agreement Lawyer

Employers invest time and resources into training employees and recruiting clients. To avoid substantial losses when an employee moves on, businesses often use various employment and termination contracts. A non-solicitation agreement is one such contract, designed to prevent employees from taking customers and employees with them when they leave. However, striking the right balance between an employer’s legitimate business concerns and an employee’s right to find work can be challenging. Seeking a knowledgeable Cook County non-solicitation agreement lawyer is the best way for employers and employees to be sure they are entering a fair agreement that will protect both parties’ best interests. A work contracts attorney could help businesses draft enforceable agreements and provide legal advice to employees to ensure their rights are upheld.

What Is a Non-Solicitation Agreement?

A non-solicitation agreement is a contract or clause within an employment contract that prevents an employee from taking customers and employees with them when they move on to a new position. The agreement places restraints on whom a former employee can contact when reaching out to potential customers or hiring employees. The terms of a non-solicitation agreement include:

• What is considered solicitation
• Who is covered by the agreement (ex., employees and customers)
• The geographic scope
• A time period for the requirements

While it is reasonable for a company to take precautions to maintain key customers and employees whom they have invested resources in recruiting, a non-solicitation agreement must also respect the rights of former employees to seek suitable work. Businesses in Cook County often work with an experienced non-solicitation agreement attorney to draft a document that aligns with Illinois laws. Employees are typically encouraged to have the agreement reviewed by a lawyer before signing.

When Should You Sign a Non-Solicitation Agreement?

A non-solicitation agreement is often part of an employment agreement that an employee signs upon accepting a new position. However, an overly broad clause can restrict an individual’s right to remain in their chosen industry. Illinois courts require an agreement to be no broader than necessary to protect the company’s legitimate business interests.

Before signing a non-solicitation agreement, an employee should ensure the terms will reasonably allow them to pursue a career in the same field should they decide to leave the company. For example, a clause that denies a former employee the right to post any public advertisements is unreasonable. A requirement to move to another city or state to practice may also be unreasonable.

An experienced Cook County lawyer can be a great asset when reviewing a non-solicitation agreement. An attorney can help an employee decide whether the terms are agreeable and negotiate for more reasonable terms before signing.

Hire an Experienced Cook County Non-Solicitation Agreement Attorney

Crafting a reasonable non-solicitation agreement can feel like walking a tightrope between an employer and employee rights. An employer without the necessary legal knowledge risks drafting a clause that is considered unreasonable and, therefore, unenforceable in court. An employee taking on a new role may not consider how an agreement will impact their future.



A skilled Cook County non-solicitation agreement lawyer is familiar with both situations and can draft, negotiate terms, and review agreements to ensure they are both enforceable and fair. At S.T. Legal Group, our attorneys are experienced in handling complex non-solicitation agreement cases and the terms used to create a fair environment for both parties. Contact us today to schedule a consultation to discuss the details of your case.