I wrote a preachy article this morning on the ups and downs of life. Article can be found here at an outdoor magazine – Blue Ridge Outdoors.
Any how, you may wonder, does my preachy article have anything to do with Non-Compete litigation in Virginia?
Well, strictly speaking, non-compete litigation can lead to a Trial, which my clients will often tell you, is costly, physically and emotionally taxing, and not much fun. So, Non-competes have a great deal to do with trials, and tribulations, literally.
But, the article also relates because non-compete clients usually experience the following roller coaster in litigation:
1. RIGHTEOUS INDIGNATION – how dare they stop me from taking this job and providing for my family. I gave that company my all for years, made them tons of money and this is how they repay me?
2. COURAGE – they can’t stop me from pursuing my dream. They are going to have to sue me, take me to court and make the judge do that before I roll over.
3. FEAR – what if the jury sides with them? Do I really have to stop working for 1 year or more? What will I do then?
4. WORRY – I am paying all these attorneys fees and there is no resolution in sight. What do we do now?
5. ANGER AGAIN – if I have to pay these fees, and risk everything, I am not giving them a dime. They can see us in Court!
and the plaintiffs, or business owners in non-compete litigation usually experience the same roller coaster from a different angle:
1. RIGHTEOUS INDIGNATION – how dare they breach our agreement and work for a competitor. I shared everything with that employee and this is how she repays the favor?
2. COURAGE – I won’t let her harm my business and break her promise. I am going to sue her, take her to court and make the judge tell her how wrong her actions are.
3. FEAR – what if the jury sides with her? What will my other employees think?
4. WORRY – I am paying all these attorneys fees and there is no resolution in sight. What do we do now?
5. ANGER AGAIN – if I have to pay these fees, and risk everything, I am going to get some money, some recognition for my suffering. They can see us in Court!
Please note. This description does not in any way describe the law. Just the people. And really, non-compete litigation is like a divorce. It is emotional. Personal. Ugly and expensive.
So, if you can hack it, we’ll go the distance with you.
If not, I suggest you call me today before you sign that new non-compete agreement or leave your current company.