UPDATE: February 1, 2008 The Recent Economic Downturn and Non-Compete Agreements Recently the country has experienced an economic downturn resulting in an increased number of highly skilled workers leaving their jobs, either voluntarily or involuntarily. While politicians jockey for votes we deal with the reality that Americans are losing their jobs and businesses and employees need help. Employers are seeking to protect their business interests by enforcing non-compete agreements and former employees are attempting to support themselves and their families after separation from their employment. The courts are struggling to strike a balance between the legitimate business interests of a company and an individuals right to earn a living.  James L. Hunter, P.A. is currently engaged in multiple lawsuits involving non-compete agreements, including injunction hearings, actions for damages, and appellate litigation. In the State of Florida non-compete agreements are governed by a highly complex set of statutory and case law driven legal principles. Whether you are looking to defend against an employer attempting to enforce a non-compete or you represent a company looking to stop a corporate executive from competing in violation of a non-compete, you own it to yourself to retain counsel that has the practical knowledge and experience to implement the law to your best advantage. Employment law is a malpractice minefield. Do yourself a favor and hire experienced professionals so your guide won't be leading you with blinders on your business and financial well-being depends on it. Our attorneys are up to date on every case and statute that will impact your case. WE HAVE PERMISSION FROM OUR CLIENTELE TO PROVIDE CONTACT INFORMATION SO YOU DO CAN PERFORM YOUR DUE DILIGENCE AND CONFIRM THAT WE ARE HIGHLY EFFECTIVE, COMPETENT, AND AFFORDABLE. YOU CAN CONTACT CLIENTS AND THEY WILL TELL YOU. PLEASE DO NOT INQUIRE INTO THE SPECIFICS OF THEIR CLAIMS.  Click here to email an attorney for information.    James L. Hunter, P.A. counsels and represents employers and employees on various labor and employment-related legal issues and claims, including: EMPLOYERS - Harassment & Discrimination Claims (race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, age, gender, sexual orientation, disability, pregnancy, and others) -Sexual Harassment -Retaliation & Whistleblower -Unpaid Wages (including Overtime, Commissions, and Bonuses) -Family and Medical Leave Act ("FMLA") -Americans with Disabilities Act ("ADA") and Reasonable Accommodations -Employment Contracts -Non-Compete Agreements -Severance & Settlement Negotiations -Employee Handbooks -Counseling on Investigations, Discipline, Terminations and Work Force Reductions / Mass Layoffs -Audits of Work Policies & Employer Compliance with Labor Laws -Management & Employee Training (in English & Spanish) EMPLOYEES -Harassment & Discrimination (based on race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, age, gender, sexual orientation, disability, pregnancy, and others) -Sexual Harassment -Retaliation & Whistleblower -Defamation / Slander -Wrongful Termination -Unpaid Wages (including Overtime, Commissions, and Bonuses) -Employment-Related Constitutional Claims (ie. protected speech) -Family and Medical Leave Act ("FMLA") -Americans with Disabilities Act ("ADA") and Accommodations -Employment Contract Breaches -Non-Compete Agreements -Internal Grievances, Disciplinary Hearings, and Arbitration -Severance & Settlement Negotiations