Can I be fired for not signing a non-compete?

Get Legal Help Today

Compare Quotes From Top Companies and Save

secured lock Secured with SHA-256 Encryption

Can I be fired for not signing a non-compete?

I work for an event staffing/marketing company that has recently asked me to sign a “do not compete” agreement, due to a former employee leaving to work for a competitor. The agreement states that I will not work for a competitor for up to 2 years after my employment ends here for any reason. My concerns are, that this is where I am educated and experienced; this is the field I know and understand – If I were to be released for any unforeseeable reason, I would not want to have limitations to where I could work, in effort to protect my own livelihood and well being. Are these enforceable?

Asked on December 3, 2012 under Employment Labor Law, Arizona

Answers:

Anne Brady / Law Office of Anne Brady

Answered 11 years ago | Contributor

Yes, a non-compete agreement is enforceable in Arizona so long as the terms are not unreasonable.  Two years is considered reasonable.  There would be a question whether the geographic boundaries are also reasonable.  Yes, you can be fired in Arizona for refusing to sign a non-compete.  Arizona is an "at will" employment state, and you can be fired for any reason except a discriminatory one.  You would be wise to consult a local attorney and have him/her review this non-compete to determine if you should request any changes before signing -- elements may be negotiable.


IMPORTANT NOTICE: The Answer(s) provided above are for general information only. The attorney providing the answer was not serving as the attorney for the person submitting the question or in any attorney-client relationship with such person. Laws may vary from state to state, and sometimes change. Tiny variations in the facts, or a fact not set forth in a question, often can change a legal outcome or an attorney's conclusion. Although AttorneyPages.com has verified the attorney was admitted to practice law in at least one jurisdiction, he or she may not be authorized to practice law in the jurisdiction referred to in the question, nor is he or she necessarily experienced in the area of the law involved. Unlike the information in the Answer(s) above, upon which you should NOT rely, for personal advice you can rely upon we suggest you retain an attorney to represent you.

Get Legal Help Today

Find the right lawyer for your legal issue.

secured lock Secured with SHA-256 Encryption