Hardwick Benfer negotiates, drafts, and reviews employment agreements for executives and employers.

• Severance Agreements

  A severance agreement is an agreement between employer and employee that governs termination of employment. Often the employee receives a payment in return for a waiver of the right to sue. Sometimes the severance agreement contains other terms that can restrict the employee’s right to future employment. By signing a severance agreement, an employee may be giving up important rights and it is often in his or her best interest to have the agreement reviewed by an attorney.

  An employer may find that a well-constructed severance agreement provides for a graceful exit for its employee and protects the employer from the cost and uncertainty of future litigation. Hardwick Benfer counsels and assists employers in structuring terminations of employment in a way that is lawful, respectful, and efficient.

• Trade Secrets

  Employees have a fiduciary duty to maintain the confidentiality of their employer’s trade secrets. Hardwick Benfer advises both employees and employers about these obligations, and when necessary, conducts litigation to seek or defend against injunctions to prevent the dissemination of trade secrets.

• Non-Compete & Non-Solicitation Agreements

  Hardwick Benfer reviews, negotiates, and drafts agreements not to compete, as well as non-solicitation agreements and confidentiality agreements.

  Hardwick Benfer also litigates claims arising out of an employer’s allegation that an employee has violated an agreement not to compete.