Are you forming a joint venture with another business or organization? Are you collaborating with an external professional on a commercial project? If so, a non-circumvention agreement or clause in your contract could be highly beneficial. At EJP Law, P.C., our California business contract attorneys can guide you through the key aspects of non-circumvention agreements and clauses in California.
A non-circumvention provision is a contractual clause designed to prevent one party from bypassing another in a business relationship. This clause ensures that no party uses its position to gain direct access to opportunities, clients, customers, or sources improperly. Essentially, this provision protects the interests of intermediaries who facilitate business opportunities. Non-circumvention clauses are commonly used in various commercial transactions, such as joint ventures, mergers and acquisitions, and business partnerships.
The drafting of a non-circumvention agreement hinges on various case-specific factors. Nevertheless, it should always be written with clarity and precision to prevent any misinterpretation. Key elements to include in the agreement are:
Whether you’re hiring employees, engaging independent contractors, or entering into business transactions or joint ventures with other companies, you need to be aware of three key types of agreements:
Noncircumvention agreements can either be unilateral, restricting only one party, or mutual, restricting both parties from entering into similar arrangements with outsiders. In a mutual noncircumvention agreement, both parties are restricted from engaging in similar deals with others.
Imagine you own an auto repair shop with a loyal customer base that takes pride in their vehicles. Over time, you notice many of your regulars expressing interest in auto detailing services. While your offerings are limited to light repairs and maintenance, you happily refer them to Joe, a business acquaintance who owns a detailing shop nearby.
After several months of directing customers to Joe’s shop, you lose contact with some of your regulars. Then it dawns on you: Joe has recently expanded his operations to include many of the services you provide. Your “friend” has capitalized on your referrals, enticing your customers to visit his place for oil changes and tire rotations.
A non-circumvention agreement could have prevented this situation. Such an agreement between you and Joe would have restricted the services he could offer to the customers you referred. At the very least, you would have legal grounds to sue Joe for violating the terms of the non-circumvention agreement. This type of agreement can stand alone or be a provision within another contract.
A non-circumvention agreement offers significant advantages, primarily by providing legally binding assurance to the protected party. This assurance ensures that their business secrets or roles as intermediaries, such as brokers, remain uncompromised. Should the agreement be breached, the protected party has the legal right to file a lawsuit against the offending party and may secure a court injunction or monetary damages.
For the party restricted by a non-circumvention agreement, the benefits are less direct but still vital. The primary advantage lies in the business opportunity itself. Without the non-circumvention agreement, the enforcing party may be unwilling to proceed with the deal.
In California, generic contracts often fall short. Customizing each contract, including non-circumvention agreements, is crucial. This involves adapting the agreement to the unique aspects of your business relationship, such as the roles of the involved parties, the nature of the business opportunity, and associated risks. A well-crafted agreement not only safeguards your interests but also minimizes the risk of unenforceability in California courts due to overly broad terms.
At EJP Law, P.C., our California business lawyer has the skills and experience to draft, negotiate, review, and litigate all non-circumvention agreements/provisions. If you have any questions about your rights or your options, we are here as a resource. Contact EJP Law, P.C. today for a confidential initial appointment. From our Los Angeles and San Diego law offices, we provide business law services throughout the wider region.
