Restrictive covenants are clauses commonly found in employment contracts that outline the specific limitations and obligations imposed on employees, even after they leave the current position.

Understanding these clauses is crucial for both employers and employees to ensure compliance and protect their interests, but it is entirely normal for both parties to have questions about their meaning. In this section, we explore the meaning of restrictive covenants employment. 

What do restrictive covenants encompass? 

Restrictive covenants cover various aspects aimed at safeguarding a company's proprietary information, client relationships and competitive advantage. Typically they include:

1. Non-compete clauses: These clauses prohibit employees from engaging in similar employment with a competitor for a specified period and within a defined geographical area after leaving their current position.
2. Non-solicitation clauses: These clauses prevent employees from soliciting clients, customers or other employees of their former employer for a certain period following their departure. 
3. Non-disclosure clauses: Also known as confidentiality clauses, these provisions prohibit employees form disclosing or using confirmational information obtained during their employment for personal gain or to benefit a competitor. 
4. Non-poaching clauses: These clauses prevent employees from recruiting or hiring other employees of their former employer for a specified period after leaving the company. 
   
   

Implications for employers and employees

For employers:

• Protect proprietary information: restrictive covenants help safeguard trade secrets, client lists, and other confidential information critical to the company's success. 
• Perserve client relationships: Non-solicitation clauses prevent departing employees from poaching clients, preserving valuable business relationships. 
• Maintain competitive advantage: Non-complete clauses prevent employees from sharing sensitive information with competitors or exploding insider knowledge to gain an unfair advantage. 

For employees:

• Limit career mobility: restrictive covenants may restrict and employee's ability to pursue new job opportunities within their industry or geographical area. 
• Legal ramifications: Violating restrictive covenants can result in legal action, including injunctions, damages and potential liability for breach of contract. 
• Negotiation leverage: Employees may have the opportunity to negotiate the terms of restrictive covenants before signing and employment contract, potentially mitigating their impact. 

Navigation Restrictive Covenants

Understanding the implications of restrictive covenants is essential for both employers and employees. Employers should draft clear and reasonable clauses that protect their legitimate business interests without unduly restricting employees' career opportunities. Employees, on the other hand, should carefully review and seek legal advice before agreeing to restrictive covenants to ensure they fully understand their rights and obligations.

Restrictive covenants play a crucial role in employment contracts, shaping the rights and responsibilities of all parties. By understanding their meaning, types and implications, stakeholders can navigate these clauses effectively and protect their interests in the ever-evolving landscape of employment law. 

If you'd like support and advice about restrictive covenants in employment, contact our team today.