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DFW Employment Law
A non-compete shouldn't stop you from earning a living.
Many non-compete agreements are written more broadly than Texas law actually allows. Before you sign one — or before you leave for a new job — let an employee-side lawyer tell you what's really enforceable.
In Texas, a non-compete is enforceable only if it's tied to an otherwise enforceable agreement and is reasonable in time, geographic area, and scope of activity. Many non-competes overreach on at least one of those points. Whether you're being asked to sign one or you're worried about leaving, a review can tell you what a court is likely to actually enforce.
When non-competes are enforceable in Texas
Texas law allows non-competes, but only within limits. To be enforceable, a non-compete generally must be ancillary to an otherwise enforceable agreement (for example, one where the employer provides confidential information or specialized training) and must be reasonable in its time period, geographic scope, and the activities it restricts. Restrictions that are broader than necessary to protect a legitimate business interest can be cut back or struck down by a court.
Why a review is worth it
- Before you sign — understand exactly what you'd be agreeing to and whether terms can be negotiated.
- Before you switch jobs — find out what's realistically enforceable so you can make a confident move.
- If you're being threatened — a demand letter from a former employer is often broader than what a court would enforce.
- Related clauses — non-solicitation and confidentiality provisions can carry their own restrictions worth understanding.
The bigger picture
Non-compete law is in flux nationally, with ongoing litigation over broader limits on these agreements. Texas law continues to govern most private agreements here, and the reasonableness analysis remains central. We'll review your specific agreement against current Texas law and tell you where you stand.
Do I have a case?
If any of this sounds familiar, let's talk.
- You've been handed a non-compete and aren't sure what you're giving up.
- You want to leave for a competitor and worry about being sued.
- A former employer sent you a letter threatening to enforce a non-compete.
- The restriction seems to cover too much time, area, or too many activities.
- You signed a non-compete without specialized training or confidential info.
Common questions
Straight answers.
Are non-competes enforceable in Texas?
Sometimes. A non-compete is enforceable only if it's tied to an otherwise enforceable agreement and is reasonable in time, geography, and scope. Many are written too broadly and can be narrowed or struck down.
Should I sign the non-compete my employer gave me?
Have it reviewed first. Understanding what you're agreeing to — and whether terms can be negotiated — is far easier before you sign than after.
Can I be sued for taking a new job?
An employer can try to enforce a non-compete, but whether they'll succeed depends on how reasonable the agreement is. A review can tell you the real risk before you make a move.
What about a non-solicitation or NDA?
Those are related but distinct restrictions, and they have their own enforceability rules. We can review the whole agreement so you understand every obligation.
Areas we serve
Representing employees across Dallas–Fort Worth.
Serving employees across the Dallas–Fort Worth Metroplex. Charges for the DFW area are handled through the EEOC Dallas District Office and the Texas Workforce Commission.
Take the first step
The sooner you have counsel, the more options you have.
Reaching out today can change the outcome.