What is a non-compete?
Plain-English explanation. General information only — not legal advice.
The short version
A non-compete restricts the kind of work you can do, for whom, where, and for how long after an agreement ends.
Read the three dials
Duration (how long), geography (where), and scope of activity (what kind of work). A clause can be narrow on one dial and very broad on another.
Related clauses
Non-solicitation (not approaching clients or coworkers) and confidentiality are separate promises that often appear alongside it.
What ShieldMyDoc does with it
It flags the clause and explains its stated scope. Whether a non-compete is enforceable depends on state law and your facts — that's an attorney question, not something ShieldMyDoc decides.
Questions you may want to ask
- Exactly what work is restricted, and for how long?
- What geographic area does it cover?
- Does it apply if I'm laid off rather than resigning?
- Can the scope be narrowed before I sign?
ShieldMyDoc is an informational tool, not a law firm. It does not provide legal advice, represent you, or determine whether an agreement is enforceable. Think of it as your first look — not your final legal decision.
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