Legal Question in Legal Ethics in Maryland

While non-compete provisions are valid in Maryland, Maryland courts view non-compete provisions very strictly and will only enforce them if they are reasonable. Without reading the specific language of the non-compete clause, I can't say for sure what a court would say (no one can, really) but a 3-year, across-the-board non-compete provision sounds unreasonably broad. You should have a lawyer take a look at the language and advise you as to specifically how to handle your departure and non-renewal of the contract. You may be able to handle this in a way that removes any risk of a future dispute and will allow you to get on with your life and career. Feel free to contact me directly if you have any follow-up questions ([email protected]).