Legal Question in Employment Law in Washington
Noncompete Contract / Clause
Do I have a right to a copy of an alleged employment contract??
My former boss claims that I signed a noncompete clause when I started working for him about 5 years ago. I have no record of this document. I contacted a couple of his clients. And he is now threatening to sue me, but refuses to show me a copy of the noncompete. He says his lawyer told him he doesn't have to provide me with a copy! Don't I have a legal right to view proof of the existence of such a document? Thanks for your help.
1 Answer from Attorneys
Re: Noncompete Contract / Clause
Start by sending the former boss a certified, return receipt letter. Say that to the best of your knowledge and belief, you never signed this agreement. Politely ask for a copy. Send a copy, also by certified, return receipt, to the attorney if you know who that is.
Give them a reasonable time limit to provide you with a copy - say, two weeks.
If you don't receive it by then, you'll still be taking a chance, but the odds will be slightly more in your favor.
If you do get served with a lawsuit, contact an employment attorney immediately. Expect to have to pay an hourly fee for your defense, with perhaps a $5K retainer.
Good luck!
Merry Kogut
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