Restrictive Covenants

Leaving a job or workplace doesn’t always mean cutting ties. Many contracts include restrictive covenants that try to limit what you can do after you leave. They might stop you from joining a competitor, contacting clients, or using certain information. Some are fair and others aren’t. They’re enforceable only if reasonably necessary to protect legitimate business interests. If you’re unsure where you stand, we’ll help you assess the risks, understand your rights, and resolve disputes.

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Covenants and risk assessment

We review your covenants, look at your contract, your role, and your future plans to help you understand the real risk of enforcement.

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Detailed contract review

You’ll get clear, tailored advice on what the covenants mean in practice, how long they last, and how enforceable they really are.

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Negotiating better terms

We can help negotiate a release or amendment at the start or end of employment, reducing the restrictions you’re under.

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Support with settlement agreements

If you’re leaving under a settlement agreement, we’re skilled to help you secure enhanced terms, tailor undertakings, and provide clarity on restrictive covenants.

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Planning your exit strategy

Before your exit, we’ll guide you through your obligations and help protect your position. That includes notice, garden leave, announcements, document handling, and confidential information.

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Moving to a competitor or starting a business

If you’re joining a competitor or setting up on your own, we’ll help you manage the risks and challenge invalid covenants or overreach swiftly.

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Questions we’re often asked

What are post-termination restrictive covenants?

These are contract clauses that try to limit your actions after you leave, such as working for a competitor, contacting clients, or using confidential information.

Are restrictive covenants enforceable in the UK?

Yes, but only if they go no further than necessary to protect a legitimate business interest.

Can my employer stop me joining a competitor?

Potentially. It depends on how long the restriction lasts, the location it covers, your role, and what your employer is trying to protect.

How long can restrictions last?

Most last between three and twelve months. Anything longer is harder to enforce.

What happens if I breach a covenant?

Your former employer could apply for an injunction, seek damages, or involve your new employer.

Can I negotiate or remove covenants when I leave?

Often, yes. This is usually done through a settlement agreement or by negotiating a waiver with tailored undertakings.

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Euan Lawrence was fantastic; he was efficient, understanding, and very clear in his communication on points of law. He actively listened and gave brilliant professional advice. The administrative team that supported and worked with him was equally helpful and efficient.
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Euan made himself available and kept me informed of timelines and progress. I was not rushed or interrupted.
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The key thing for me was the empathy and emotional intelligence that Euan Lawrence demonstrated. He was patient, actively listened, and explained points of law to me in a simple yet not condescending manner. I was referred to him by another colleague who had gone through the same process.
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Excellent real-world and experienced knowledge, very clear communication, and transparent billing.
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Euan Lawrence is expert in the field of employment law.
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I feel the approach from all the staff at Blacks has been first class. David Ward has carefully guided me through the process and often picks up the phone for a chat to offer advice on things to do and things to avoid.
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