Resolving Disputes Over Unfair Competitive Practices
If you have become a target for unfair competition by a business that was set up by or has employed a former employee of yours, you have rights. And if you have been accused of unfair competition or abuse of fair market practices, you need a skilled lawyer to defend you against those accusations.
I'm Minneapolis attorney Lee Watson, and I have decades of experience helping Minnesota clients litigate and resolve unfair competition disputes. Don't hesitate to contact me to discuss your legal rights and options.
Understanding Employees' Legal Duty of Loyalty
Employees in Minnesota have a basic duty of loyalty toward their employers. Employees get access to employer property and information, and it is expected that they will not take advantage of that access in order to engage in unfair competition through, for instance:
- Pre-termination solicitation of customers, vendors and co-workers to follow them to a new, competing business
- Sabotage of company facilities and initiatives in order to give a competitive advantage to a new or existing competitor
- Theft of trade secrets and confidential information for the purpose of transferring them to a competitor or setting up a new business
The legal duty of loyalty exists as long as employees remain employed and continues in many respects after employment ends, especially if they retain access to company property after leaving employment.
Some companies supplement the legal duty of loyalty by asking their employees to sign non-competition agreements, but the lack of a non-competition agreement does not meant the employee is allowed to engage in unfair competition.
Navigating the Tricky Waters of Unfair Competition Law
I am experienced at representing employers, their former employees and their competitors in litigation over unfair competition. I will handle your case with the utmost respect for your ultimate goals and will pursue a positive outcome that protects your interests.
Healthy competition is good for the economy. However, competition becomes unfair when it is based on an employee's breach of his or her duties. I am highly familiar with the law in this area.
To learn more about unfair competition and what you can do to protect yourself and your business, contact me today.
