NON-COMPETE & TRADE SECRET LITIGATION

Florida businesses rely on non-compete agreements and trade secret protections to safeguard their competitive edge. At International Law Partners LLP, we represent both employers and employees in disputes involving restrictive covenants and trade secret claims across the state.

Our attorneys understand the unique framework of Florida law, where non-compete agreements are enforceable if properly drafted — but subject to strict statutory requirements and judicial scrutiny. Whether you need to enforce a covenant, defend against one, or protect confidential business information, we bring the litigation strength needed to achieve results.

Florida Non-Compete Agreements

Florida Statute § 542.335 governs restrictive covenants, including non-compete, non-solicitation, and non-disclosure agreements. Under Florida law:

Enforceability requires that the restriction protect a “legitimate business interest,” such as trade secrets, confidential information, customer relationships, or goodwill.
Reasonableness is key. Courts evaluate the duration, geographic scope, and line of business restrictions to determine enforceability.
Burden Shifting favors enforcement. Once the employer shows a legitimate business interest, the burden shifts to the employee to prove the restriction is unreasonable.
Blue-Penciling allows courts to modify overly broad agreements rather than void them entirely.

We represent both employers seeking injunctions to enforce non-competes and employees defending against unfair restrictions that limit their careers.

Trade Secret Protection in Florida

Florida has adopted the Uniform Trade Secrets Act (FUTSA), codified at § 688.001–688.009, Fla. Stat. Trade secrets can include formulas, methods, financial data, customer lists, and other confidential business information.

Key issues in Florida trade secret disputes include:

Definition of a Trade Secret – Information must derive independent economic value from not being generally known and must be subject to reasonable efforts to maintain secrecy.
Misappropriation – Involves improper acquisition, disclosure, or use of a trade secret.
Remedies – Injunctive relief, damages (including unjust enrichment), and in cases of willful misappropriation, attorneys’ fees.
Overlap with Non-Competes – Many disputes involve both contractual and statutory claims.

Our team litigates trade secret cases in both state and federal courts throughout Florida, bringing deep experience in injunction practice and complex business litigation.

Our Approach

At International Law Partners LLP, we combine statutory knowledge with practical litigation strategies:

Emergency Relief – Seeking or defending against temporary restraining orders and preliminary injunctions.
Risk Management – Advising employers on drafting enforceable agreements and protecting proprietary information.
Employee Defense – Protecting professionals and executives accused of violating non-competes or misappropriating trade secrets.
Business Continuity – Developing strategies that minimize disruption while safeguarding core assets.

Why Choose International Law Partners?

Florida-Focused – Deep knowledge of Florida’s restrictive covenant and trade secret statutes.
Trial-Ready – Proven litigation experience in high-stakes injunction and damages cases.
Balanced Representation – We represent both businesses and individuals, giving us insight into both sides of the dispute.
Strategic Counsel – Tailored solutions that align with your business or career goals.

Protecting Your Business. Protecting Your Future.

Whether you are a business seeking to enforce a non-compete or protect trade secrets, or an individual defending your right to work, International Law Partners LLP provides the courtroom strength and practical strategies you need.