Non-Compete Agreement in Massachusetts
State-specific overview · Employment Law
Massachusetts strictly limits non-competes to protect employee mobility; courts enforce only reasonable restrictions on time, area, and line of business.
How Massachusetts treats Non-Compete Agreement
Massachusetts courts apply a strict reasonableness test and disfavor non-compete agreements, often striking down overly broad restrictions. The state requires that any non-compete serve a legitimate business interest such as protecting trade secrets or confidential information. Courts typically enforce restrictions lasting six months to two years, depending on the circumstances. Non-competes must be narrowly tailored to the specific geographic area and business sector where the employer actually operates.
The general definition of Non-Compete Agreement
A contract clause restricting an employee from working for competitors or starting a competing business after leaving.
A non-compete agreement is a contract between an employer and employee that prevents the employee from working for a competitor or starting a competing business for a set period after leaving the job. These agreements are designed to protect the employer's trade secrets and customer relationships. However, courts scrutinize them carefully because they restrict a person's right to earn a living. A non-compete is generally enforceable only if it is reasonable in scope (limited to a specific geographic area and time period) and protects a legitimate business interest. Some states, like California, disfavor non-competes entirely.
Read the full Non-Compete Agreement entry →This page is a plain-English reference and is not legal advice. State laws change frequently. For specific situations consult a licensed attorney in Massachusetts.