Non-Compete Litigation Attorney in Tampa

When a former employee, contractor, or business partner violates a restrictive covenant, your company’s reputation and client relationships are at risk. Likewise, if you’ve been accused of breaching a non-compete, your livelihood may be on the line.

At Roussos Law Group, we represent both employers and individuals in non-compete litigation throughout Florida. Our attorneys draw on extensive courtroom and negotiation experience to resolve these disputes strategically and efficiently while ensuring compliance with Florida’s complex statutory requirements.

Understanding Non-Compete Litigation in Florida

Non-compete disputes typically arise when one party alleges that another has engaged in unfair competition or violated a contractual restriction on post-employment or post-business activities.

Under Florida Statute §542.335, restrictive covenants such as non-compete and non-solicitation agreements are enforceable only when they protect legitimate business interests, including:

  • Trade secrets and proprietary information
  • Customer goodwill or substantial relationships
  • Specialized employee training
  • Confidential data and marketing strategies

 

Courts assess these covenants for reasonableness in duration, geographic scope, and activity limitations. Overly broad restrictions are often narrowed or invalidated.

Common Issues We Handle

Roussos Law Group helps clients on both sides of non-compete disputes, addressing issues such as:

  • Enforcement actions seeking injunctions against former employees or partners
  • Defense against overly broad or invalid non-compete clauses
  • Breach of confidentiality or trade-secret misuse
  • Employee solicitation or client-poaching allegations
  • Disputes over contract scope, territory, or duration
  • Negotiation of settlement agreements and release terms

 

Our balanced experience representing employers and professionals allows us to anticipate opposing strategies and craft tailored solutions.

Litigation Process & Resolution Options

Non-compete cases move quickly — injunctions may be filed within days of an alleged breach. Our attorneys act promptly to preserve evidence and protect your rights at every stage:

  • Case evaluation & agreement review: Analyze contract language, consideration, and enforceability.
  • Demand letters or pre-suit negotiation: Seek early resolution through modification or release.
  • Filing suit or responding to injunctions: Prepare pleadings to enforce or challenge restrictions.
  • Discovery & evidence gathering: Collect records, communications, and witness testimony.
  • Mediation or settlement conferences: Explore alternatives to costly, prolonged litigation.
  • Trial & injunctive relief: Present your case and ensure compliance with court orders.

 

Each case is handled with urgency and professionalism to limit disruption and financial loss.

Preventive Strategies for Florida Businesses

Avoiding litigation begins with well-drafted agreements. Roussos Law Group assists companies and executives in:

  • Reviewing or revising restrictive covenants before signing
  • Ensuring agreements protect legitimate business interests
  • Defining reasonable geographic and time limits
  • Establishing exit and confidentiality procedures
  • Conducting compliance audits for existing employee contracts

 

Taking these proactive measures helps prevent disputes and preserves enforceability if litigation becomes necessary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are non-compete agreements enforceable in Florida?

Yes — if they protect legitimate business interests and are reasonable in scope and duration under F.S. § 542.335.

What happens if someone violates a non-compete?

A court may issue an injunction to stop the prohibited activity and, in some cases, award damages.

Can non-competes be modified by the court?

Yes. Judges may narrow overly broad restrictions rather than void them entirely.

How long can a non-compete last in Florida?

Generally, up to six months to two years for employees, or longer for sellers of a business.

Can I challenge a non-compete I already signed?

Yes, especially if it lacks valid consideration or imposes unreasonable limits on your ability to work.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Are non-compete agreements enforceable in Florida?

Yes — if they protect legitimate business interests and are reasonable in scope and duration under F.S. § 542.335.

What happens if someone violates a non-compete?

A court may issue an injunction to stop the prohibited activity and, in some cases, award damages.

Can non-competes be modified by the court?

Yes. Judges may narrow overly broad restrictions rather than void them entirely.

How long can a non-compete last in Florida?

Generally, up to six months to two years for employees, or longer for sellers of a business.

Can I challenge a non-compete I already signed?

Yes, especially if it lacks valid consideration or imposes unreasonable limits on your ability to work.