Non-Compete Litigation
Non-compete disputes move fast and the stakes are immediate: a departing employee, a threatened customer relationship, a competing business opening its doors. Williams Taylor Law, P.A. represents Fort Lauderdale and South Florida businesses in enforcing non-compete agreements — and represents executives and employees in defending against them — in Florida courts.
Enforcing Non-Compete Agreements
When a former employee or business partner violates a non-compete, delay favors the violator. We act quickly: evaluating enforceability under Florida's non-compete statute, documenting the breach, sending targeted cease-and-desist communications where appropriate, and filing suit — including emergency motions for temporary injunctions — when the situation demands it.
Defending Against Non-Compete Claims
Being accused of violating a non-compete does not mean the agreement is enforceable as written. We defend executives, employees, and their new employers by challenging overbroad restrictions, disputing whether a legitimate business interest is at stake, and raising defenses based on the employer's own conduct such as material breach or waiver.
Injunctions and Emergency Relief
Non-compete cases are often won or lost at the injunction stage. Once a violation of a valid non-compete is shown, Florida law presumes irreparable harm — which is why courts frequently grant temporary injunctions early, before a full trial.
Litigating in Florida Courts
Non-compete litigation in Florida follows its own playbook: expedited injunction hearings, focused discovery on competitive activity, and judges experienced with Section 542.335. We litigate in state courts across South Florida, from emergency relief through trial and, where the agreement allows, recovery of attorney's fees.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How quickly can I get an injunction? A: Temporary injunctions can move in days to weeks; Florida law presumes irreparable harm once a violation of a valid non-compete is established.
Q: What damages are available? A: Injunctive relief plus actual damages; some agreements include enforceable attorney's-fee provisions.
Q: What if the agreement is overbroad? A: Courts generally narrow it to what is reasonably necessary rather than refusing enforcement entirely.
Q: Can I keep working while the case is pending? A: If no injunction is in place you may continue working, but your actions can become evidence; get counsel involved before the hearing.
Q: Do non-compete cases usually settle? A: Many do, often after early injunction rulings clarify each side's position.
Related: Practice Areas · Non-Compete Agreements · Non-Solicitation Agreements · Trade Secrets
Schedule a strategy session. If you need to enforce a non-compete or defend against one, call Williams Taylor Law, P.A. at (954) 507-7732 or visit our Fort Lauderdale office at 515 E. Las Olas Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301.
Attorney advertising. This page provides general information, not legal advice. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.