Arizona law does not prohibit non-compete agreements, but it places strict limits on their scope. Terms that are too broad, too long, or too vague often fail in court. In Phoenix, where industries move quickly and professionals frequently change roles, the way a non-compete agreement is written and enforced can have real consequences.
If you’re an employer searching for a Phoenix employer non-compete agreement lawyer, Shields Petitti & Zoldan, PLC can help. With over five decades of combined experience, we can help draft, review, or defend your agreement to help ensure it represents the best terms for you or your business.
What Arizona Employers Should Know About Non-Competes
Arizona allows non-compete agreements but only within strict boundaries. Courts scrutinize these contracts for fairness, clarity, and necessity. If the terms overreach—e.g., by lasting too long, covering too wide a geographic area, or restricting more than necessary—they may not hold up in court.
A valid non-compete in Arizona must:
- Protect a legitimate business interest, such as trade secrets or client relationships;
- Be reasonable in scope, including time, geography, and job duties; and
- Avoid harming public interest, especially when restricting someone’s ability to work.
Phoenix’s fast-moving job market makes these rules even more important. If your employees unexpectedly switch roles or launch their own ventures, improperly written non-competes can expose businesses to serious risk.
When Should Employers Hire a Non-Compete Lawyer?
Non-compete agreements are only useful when written with foresight and enforced with care. As an employer, you should consult a non-compete enforcement attorney in Arizona when:
- You are onboarding a key executive or technical employee with access to sensitive information;
- You are drafting employment agreements and want to include legally enforceable restrictive covenants;
- A former employee leaves to work for a competitor or starts a competing business;
- You want to send a cease-and-desist letter or seek an injunction in court; or
- You need guidance on protecting your business without risking a clause being voided by the court.
In moments like these, hesitation can lead to costly mistakes. Having a non-compete lawyer in Phoenix who understands the nuances of state non-compete law gives you a clear path forward before the situation escalates.
What Can Arizona Employers Do If a Non-Compete Is Breached?
When a former employee breaches a valid non-compete agreement, an Arizona non-compete law attorney can help you pursue:
- A cease-and-desist letter—demanding they stop working for the competitor or soliciting your clients;
- An injunction or temporary restraining order—helping stop further harm while the case proceeds;
- A lawsuit seeking damages—including lost profits, unjust enrichment, or harm to client relationships; and
- Claims under the Arizona Uniform Trade Secrets Act (AUTSA)—seeking restitution if confidential information or trade secrets were misused.
Arizona courts may enforce a non-compete without proof of actual harm if there’s a threat of irreparable harm, particularly to confidential information or goodwill. That’s why it’s critical to document the business interest at stake when pursuing enforcement.
Why Should I Work with a Phoenix Employer Non-Compete Agreement Lawyer Who Represents Both Sides?
At Shields Petitti & Zoldan, PLC, we have the unique advantage of representing both employers and employees in non-compete disputes. This gives us insight into the common defenses employees raise and how to address them preemptively.
For employers, we provide strategic legal guidance on:
- Drafting enforceable agreements that reflect your business model and industry norms;
- Negotiating terms during hiring or separation;
- Enforcing valid agreements through litigation or emergency injunctions; and
- Responding to unfair competition, employee poaching, or misuse of proprietary data.
Whether you’re running a startup or a longstanding business, our team can help you use non-competes as a tool for growth and protection, not litigation risk.
Ready to Contact a Non-Compete Agreement Lawyer? Phoenix-Based Shields Petitti & Zoldan, PLC, Is in Your Corner
We are proud to represent Arizona employers who need clarity, strength, and strategic enforcement of their non-compete agreements. When working with our firm, you can expect:
- Thorough review of your existing contracts and industry-specific risks;
- Tailored solutions that reflect your company’s structure and goals;
- Courtroom-ready advocacy when agreements are violated;
- A partnership that balances legal enforcement with your business realities.
At Shields Petitti & Zoldan, PLC, we combine trial experience, employment law knowledge, and business-savvy counsel. Whether you’re protecting client relationships, intellectual property, or confidential processes, a skilled business attorney for non-compete agreements in Phoenix can help you enforce non-competes strategically and legally.
If you need a non-compete agreement lawyer, contact us today. With more than five decades of combined experience and a reputation built on trial success, we are prepared to fight for your business and its future.