In the age of technology, the level of competition between companies in Florida and elsewhere can be fierce. Individuals who choose to work in this particular field may place a high priority on obtaining the best position available, which could lead to frequent changes in employment. While in some cases, losing an employee can simply be unfortunate, if they move to a rival company, it can lead to intense contract and noncompete disputes.

Citrix systems, which is a giant in the software industry, has recently sent cease-and-desist letters to several former employees, who have all left to work for a startup company named Egnyte. Citrix claims that the move is in violation of their noncompete agreements, and is seeking to bar their new employment opportunity. Shortly after receiving the news, Egnyte reportedly went to courts in the state in which it is based and filed a lawsuit against the other company.

Citrix, which is based in Florida, filed a lawsuit of its own soon thereafter. Along with the alleged violation of noncompete agreements, it also claims that some of the former employees violated the Trade Secrets Act by taking sensitive information with them upon leaving. However, Egnyte claims that none of those who left Citrix are working in the same field at Egnyte, and are in no way seeking to make contact with customers or employees from their previous jobs with Citrix.

When noncompete disputes of this nature arise, those affected may find it beneficial to seek guidance in the early stages of the process. By speaking with an attorney with experience in handling such intricate matters, a client in Florida could obtain advice on how best to approach the situation. An attorney can evaluate the circumstances surrounding the dispute and assist a client in pursuing the most favorable outcome possible through the necessary means.

Source: Forbes, “How A Startup's Legal Battle With A Software Giant Could Redefine Tech Workers' Rights“, Alex Konrad, Oct. 20, 2017