I did divorce work for years. Even did criminal work. I currently split my practice between serious injury cases related to malpractice, and non-compete employment litigation.
Clients appearing before the court on domestic issues and/or facing criminal charges, often anticipate the process will be emotional, difficult and stressful.
But for some reason, our non-compete clients think that taking or defending a non-compete case in Court will just be “business,” not personal. They assume because it is work related, it will not have any impact on them personally.
News flash. Court is always emotional, difficult and stressful. Not to mention the attorneys fees which I doubt anyone enjoys paying.
I have had many clients (and spouses of clients) call me in non-compete litigation and tell me how hard it has been on them emotionally. Lawsuits will cause anxiety, stress, you name it.
So what is the solution?
Warn people not to enter into the situation lightly.
Do my best to keep them focused and advise them on possible outcomes so they can position themselves well.
And do my best to make cases end quickly, and favorably for my clients.
That being said…. the best way to avoid all of this stress, is to discuss your agreement, your employment agreement, with someone before you SIGN IT… and or leave your job.
We can’t always avoid litigation…. sometimes people will sue no matter what, but hopefully, some advice and planning can save at least a few Virginia employees, the time, money and emotional energy it takes to litigate a case.
Blessings to you all this New Year!