Legal Question in Employment Law in Pennsylvania

New employer restrictions

Part of my employee manual states that upon leaving my current company, I cannot practice architecture for any firm within a 50 mile radius for a period of 3 years. 1)Is this even legal? 2) I have seen an update that now states 150 miles for 3 years even if they terminate an employee. Assuming it was legal when I signed my offer since the offer referred to the employee manual, can a company just keep updating their employee manual without telling me or asking me to sign an updated version? 3)If I refuse to sign is that legal grounds for terminating me (I know PA is an atwill state, so I don't know what protection there may be for workers)? Sorry for all the questions and thank you for the help!


Asked on 4/28/08, 8:42 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Roger Traversa Arjont Group (Law Office of Roger Traversa)

Re: New employer restrictions

You asked about an employment agreement.

Employment agreements are a fickle beast and are looked at as to reasonableness.

I could quote cases both for and against the employer. Generally restrictions are very rarely enforced for anyone except high value talent or executives.

If this matter gives you any cause for concern it is well worth it to bring the matter to an attorney to take a look at the matter.

Regards,

Roger

Read more
Answered on 5/03/08, 11:11 pm


Related Questions & Answers

More Labor and Employment Law questions and answers in Pennsylvania