Non-Compete Agreement Attorneys in Virginia

Employers often use non-compete agreements to limit an employee’s ability to work for a competitor or start a competing business after leaving the company. These contracts can have serious consequences for your career, especially if they are overly broad, vague, or unfair.

At The Mundaca Law Firm, we help workers across Virginia understand, challenge, and defend against non-compete agreements. Whether you’re reviewing a contract before signing or dealing with restrictions after leaving a job, we’re here to protect your rights and future opportunities.

What Is a Non-Compete Agreement?

A non-compete agreement (sometimes called a covenant not to compete) is a contract where an employee agrees not to work in the same industry or for a competitor for a specific time period and within a certain geographic area after their employment ends.

These agreements are often included in:

  • Offer letters or employment contracts
  • Severance agreements
  • Independent contractor agreements
  • Partnership or shareholder agreements

Employers claim they use non-competes to protect trade secrets, client relationships, and investments in training. But in many cases, these restrictions go far beyond what is reasonable or legal.

Are Non-Compete Agreements Enforceable in Virginia?

Yes—but only if they meet strict legal standards. Virginia courts are cautious when it comes to enforcing non-competes, and they generally favor an employee’s right to earn a living.

To be enforceable in Virginia, a non-compete agreement must be:

  1. Narrow in scope (not overly broad in duties restricted)
  2. Reasonable in duration (typically 6 to 12 months is more acceptable)
  3. Reasonable in geographic reach (limited to areas where the company truly competes)
  4. Protecting a legitimate business interest, such as trade secrets or client goodwill

If a non-compete is found to be overly broad or vague, a Virginia court is likely to invalidate the entire agreement.

Virginia Law Limits Non-Compete Agreements for Certain Workers

As of July 1, 2020, Virginia law prohibits non-compete agreements for “low-wage employees.”

A “low-wage employee” is generally someone earning less than:

  • The average weekly wage in Virginia (adjusted annually)
  • $67,000/year (approximate figure, varies by year)

Under this law, employers cannot enforce or require non-competes for covered employees. If you think this might apply to you, we can help you assert your rights.

Common Issues with Non-Compete Agreements

Non-compete agreements can create major challenges for workers, including:

  • Loss of job opportunities in your field
  • Legal threats or lawsuits for breach of contract
  • Confusion over vague terms
  • Pressure to sign contracts without legal review
  • Difficulty starting your own business or serving previous clients

Don’t assume your non-compete is valid just because your employer says so. Many are not enforceable, and others can be negotiated or challenged.

How The Mundaca Law Firm Can Help

We help employees at all stages of dealing with non-compete agreements—from review and negotiation to litigation defense.

Our Services Include:

  • Reviewing employment and severance agreements for restrictive clauses
  • Challenging overly broad or unenforceable non-competes
  • Negotiating revised terms or release from obligations
  • Defending against non-compete enforcement lawsuits
  • Advising on starting new jobs or businesses safely

We work with professionals in a wide range of industries, including tech, healthcare, sales, government contracting, and more.

Facing Legal Threats? You Have Options.

If your former employer is threatening legal action based on a non-compete agreement, don’t panic—and don’t try to handle it alone. You may have strong defenses under Virginia law.

We’ll evaluate your contract, assess its enforceability, and guide you through your legal options. If necessary, we’ll represent you in court and work to protect your career and reputation.

Protect Your Career and Your Future

A non-compete shouldn’t stop you from working or supporting your family. At The Mundaca Law Firm, we help Virginia employees push back against unfair restrictions and move forward with confidence.

Call Today for a Confidential Consultation

  • Phone: (202) 474-8500
  • Website: www.mundacalaw.com
  • Offices: Washington, D.C. and Annapolis, MD
  • Serving: Employees throughout Virginia and the D.C. metro area

Don’t let a non-compete hold you back. Let us help you understand your rights, protect your interests, and take control of your next career move.