If your employer has asked you to sign a non-disclosure agreement, you may have a lot of questions. Before signing any legal document, it is important to make sure you are fully informed about what you are signing and that all of your questions are answered. It may also be a good idea to speak with an experienced employment law attorney. Read on to learn the answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about non-disclosure agreements.
What is a Non-Disclosure Agreement?
A non-disclosure agreement, commonly known as an NDA, is a document designed to protect sensitive information pertaining to a company and its clients. As an employee, if you are going to be exposed to confidential information, oftentimes, your employer will ask you to sign such an agreement to protect certain things like:
- Trade secrets
- Sales or marketing plans
- Client information
- Information about new products or services
When are NDA’s Used?
Typically, a non-disclosure agreement will be needed when:
- Sharing a trade secret
- Starting a business relationship between an attorney and a client or a doctor and a patient
- Business plans or plans for a new product
- Upon providing information to a reporter who is writing about the business
- Upon hiring a new employee that will have access to confidential information
Can My Employer Legally Require me to Sign an NDA?
For the most part, requiring employees to sign non-disclosure agreements is completely legal. If your employer will be sharing trade secrets with you, giving you access to private information, including clients’ information, the company’s information, introducing plans for their business to you, and more, there is a very good chance that such an agreement is perfectly sound and even necessary in order to protect their business.
What Happens if I Violate an NDA?
If you violate a non-disclosure agreement, you will most likely face serious legal penalties. To avoid this, it is important to speak with an experienced attorney who can help you fully understand the agreement you are signing and what it entails. If you do violate an NDA, reach out to an experienced attorney as soon as possible- an attorney can inform you of the best steps to take and ways to mitigate the damage.
If you have any questions or concerns about employment law in New Jersey, our firm is here to help.
Contact our Firm
The dedicated and compassionate attorneys at Vigilante Law Firm, P.C. would be happy to provide you with assistance in your case and help you protect your future when so much is on the line. Contact us today to schedule a consultation so we can assess the specific circumstances surrounding your lawsuit.
