Ohio Noncompete Agreement: What's Included and Enforceability
Quick Facts — Noncompete Agreement Lawyers
- Avg cost to draft a Non-Compete Agreement: $550.00
- Avg cost to review a Non-Compete Agreement: $360.00
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Is a Non-Compete Agreement Enforceable in Ohio?
Yes. Non-compete agreements are enforceable in Ohio for the purposes of restricting unfair competition by a former employee. The Supreme Court has established three rules that all non-compete agreements must abide by to be legally enforceable.
- The restrictions can be no greater than necessary to protect the employer’s business interests.
- The contract cannot impose undue hardship on the employee.
- The non-compete agreement cannot injure the public.
Lawyers are the only the profession in Ohio that are prohibited from entering non-compete agreements or any other agreement.
How Long Does an Ohio Non-Compete Agreement Last?
The duration of a non-compete agreement depends on the geographic boundary. Typically, the longer the contract lasts, the smaller the boundary must be to be deemed reasonable by the court. In Ohio, non-competes that last for five years have been ruled reasonable when the geographic boundary is limited to a city or town.
How Do You Get Around a Non-Compete Agreement in Ohio?
To get around a non-compete agreement in Ohio, an employee must show that the agreement fails to meet the requirements of one of the three rules established by the Supreme Court of Ohio.
If the employee can successfully show that the agreement is overly broad and restrictive, imposes an undue burden, or somehow injures the public, a court may deem the agreement unenforceable.
What Voids an Ohio Non-Compete Agreement?
Like any contract, a non-compete agreement in Ohio will be declared void if it was not entered into by the employee voluntarily. Employers cannot use coercion or threats to force employees to sign a non-compete agreement. In addition, contracts if it is found that fraud or misleading statements were used to entice an employee to sign the contract, the contract will be ruled void and unenforceable.
Frequently Asked Questions
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See Real Non-Compete Agreement Projects
Massachusetts Non-Compete Clause in Employment (1099) contract Review
- Massachusetts
- 5 lawyer bids
- $250 - $795
California Employment non compete question session Drafting
- California
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Nevada I have two non competes that needs review, one on rollover shares and as a retired officer Review
- Nevada
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Meet some of our Ohio Noncompete Agreement Lawyers
Tony C.
I am a skilled attorney with over 36 years of legal experience with an emphasis on commercial and residential real estate, estate planning, probate and criminal appeals.
"Tony was fantastic to work with. Clear in his communication, incredibly helpful, went above and beyond for us and made sure we got the right result. Highly recommend."
Gary S.
Gary is the Founder and Principal Attorney at New Ridge Law, where they understand that navigating the legal landscape can be daunting for small businesses—but it doesn’t have to be. The mission at New Ridge is to simplify the complexities, providing clear, affordable, and practical guidance so you can focus on what you do best: growing your business and serving your clients. From business formation and contracts to compliance and dispute resolution, you can move forward with confidence, knowing you have a trusted partner by your side.
"I had a great experience working with Gary. He was very responsive and consistently provided timely, clear answers. Professional, efficient, and easy to work with—I would definitely recommend him."
Dominick B.
Dominick Brook has been a licensed attorney in Ohio for the last 16-years. Prior to founding Brook Law, he served as the Director of Real Estate at Ohio University, negotiating and structuring complex transactions to align the University’s real estate portfolio with its mission. For over a decade before Ohio University, Dominick was a Senior Manager at Ernst & Young and served as a trusted business advisor for clients ranging from Fortune 10 companies to high-tech start-ups. Earlier in his career, he worked as a research analyst with Ohio University’s Voinovich School and served as an adjunct instructor of economics at Ohio University. Dominick is a graduate of the University of Edinburgh in Scotland (Masters of Economics and Politics), Ohio University (Masters of Political Science), and the Ohio State University's Moritz College of Law (Juris Doctorate). He is a Governor-appointed Ohio Commodore to aid in the attraction of businesses to Ohio, is a member in three angel investment funds, and served on the Athens County Port Authority.
Elisher W.
Attorney licensed in Kentucky and Ohio with four years experience in real estate transactional law (commercial and residential), litigation, construction law, and IP licensing. I have substantial experience in drafting and reviewing contracts as complex as billion dollar mining financing down to simple settlement agreements.
"I appreciate all of Eli's help in reviewing my prenup and acting on my partner's behalf."
September 19, 2024
Andrew G.
Mr. Goodwin is an experienced transactional attorney, with experience working both for a large law firm and as in-house counsel for a leading global healthcare system.
John B.
J. D. Bridges has worked both in-house and in firms and has seen countless commercial agreements and technology deals from every angle. J. D.’s worked as in-house counsel for high-growth, VC-backed startups, IT solutions providers and cybersecurity companies and also at an AmLaw Top 50 global firm, representing clients in a variety of industries and purchasers and creators of technology across the globe. He’s negotiated commercial contracts with some of the world’s largest financial services and pharmaceutical companies, as well as assisting startups from incorporation to exit. He’s also helped Fortune 100 companies protect themselves and their data when procuring technology from startups and legacy technology providers alike. J. D. brings a practical and growth-focused mindset to legal advice and excels in working with front-line sales organizations and sales leadership as well as internal counsel, business owners and procurement professionals. Whether a pre-seed AI startup, established manufacturer or a global IT procurement effort, J. D. can support you while concurrently growing and protecting your business.
February 12, 2025
Maria H.
Motivated, hardworking, and passionate attorney with strong organizational skills. Skilled in researching, interpreting, and writing legal documents. Detailed-oriented individual with excellent time management and problem-solving skills. Ability to handle multiple projects simultaneously with a high degree of accuracy. I have WealthCounsel available for Ohio.
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Browse Lawyers NowLawyer Reviews for Ohio Noncompete Agreement Projects
Florida LCSW – 1099 Contract, Urgent Non-Compete & Client Solicitation Review
"This was my first time working with a lawyer and it was an extremely positive experience. This matter was extremely urgent and I was able to recieve feedback nearly instantly. I would highly reccomend!"
Review Restrictive-Covenant Agreement for Employee in Massachusetts
"Paul was incredibly helpful in reviewing a non-compete agreement I needed to sign. He helped me understand the key risks, identify what was worth negotiating, and prepare redlines to bring the agreement more in line with Massachusetts law. He was knowledgeable, responsive, and practical throughout the process. I would definitely work with him again."
Legal Advice Needed for Non-Compete Agreement in Minnesota
"First draft that was delivered didn’t meet expectations. Initially offered to do more work if I paid more. Did agree to take a more comprehensive look and provided services. Very prompt"
Non-Compete Agreement and Employment Offer Review, Pre-signing
"Paul was stellar in every way. Highest recommendation possible; I will be continuing to partner with him. Thank you, Paul."
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"Rey pleased with Zach’s thoroughness."
Employment
Noncompete Agreement
Connecticut
Noncompete agreement and promotions?
I recently accepted a promotion within my company and was asked to sign a noncompete agreement. I am concerned that if I accept the promotion and then leave the company, that I will not be able to take a similar position with another company. I am also worried that if I don't accept the promotion, I may be at risk of being terminated. I need to know what my rights are and what the implications are of signing the noncompete agreement.
Thomas L.
It depends on the terms of the non-compete and the size of your employer. Without seeing the agreement and knowing the size of your employer, I can't offer more advice.
Contracts
Noncompete Agreement
Florida
Noncompete agreement and severance packages?
I recently left my job of 5 years, where I had signed a non-compete agreement. I am now negotiating a severance package with my former employer and am unsure of what my rights and obligations are regarding the non-compete agreement. I am seeking clarification on how the non-compete agreement should be handled in relation to the terms of my severance package.
Diane D.
To be able to answer this question, I would need to see the agreements. No one can answer your question without seeing the agreements.
Employee Rights
Noncompete Agreement
California
i work for a employer from illinois ,however i am in california. My contract has non compete clause. will that be enforceable
My employer has placed me in a position thru another vendor. My employer contract with that vendor is ending. So vendor contacted me. However I am in contract with my employer for 1 year contract.
Christopher M.
Short answer: Probably no, non-compete and non-solicitation clauses are not usually enforceable on an employee in California. Long Answer: Regardless of the choice of law provision in your contract, if an enforcement action is brought against you in California, the California courts will dismiss it as it goes against the "public policy of the state" unless your employer can make a really compelling case. Most states respect the stated public policy of other states when deciding matters against their citizens, so even if the case was brought in another states courts your soon to be former employer would probably be powerless to get a judgement enforcing your non-compete.
Employment
Noncompete Agreement
New Jersey
Can I work for a competitor with my current noncompete?
I have ended my non competent consulting agreement with my current employee and I have an offer to work as an employer “not as consultant” with a competitor company to my privious employees so can I work as an employee without any problem? The consultant agreement says the following: Under any circumstances the consultant shall not engage directly or indirectly either as a principal agent , consultant,stock holder , partner or in any other capacity whatsoever have any other relationship with any business which compete with the company in USA.
Jane C.
I suggest that you have an attorney review the entire agreement. It is hard to comment reading a paragraph taken out of context. From the limited facts you present, it seems that you cannot accept this job offer without violating the terms of the non-compete. Disclaimer - This information is provided for general informational purposes only. No information contained in this post should be construed as legal advice and does not establish an attorney-client relationship.
Employee Rights
Noncompete Agreement
Washington
Can my employer enforce a non-compete agreement if I was laid off due to COVID-19?
Can my former employer legally enforce the non-compete agreement I signed when I was hired, considering I was recently laid off due to the economic impact of COVID-19 and the agreement seems to restrict my ability to find new employment in my field? I have been actively seeking new job opportunities in the same industry, but potential employers are hesitant to hire me due to the non-compete agreement, which restricts me from working for competitors or starting my own business in the same field for a certain period of time. I want to understand if the non-compete agreement is still valid and enforceable given the circumstances of my layoff and the current job market conditions.
Merry K.
I'm sorry, but your question is impossible to answer without reviewing your contract and knowing more about your type of job and compensation. Be aware that terms in such agreements are often found to be non-enforceable. You can start by reviewing the Washington State law on point: https://app.leg.wa.gov/rcw/default.aspx?cite=49.62&full=true
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