Non-Compete Laws in Florida

Yes. Florida is one of the more employer-friendly states regarding non-competes. Florida Statutes Section 542.335 creates presumptions that favor enforcement and places the burden on the employee to prove the restriction is unreasonable.

Up to 2 years is presumed reasonable under Florida law. Periods longer than 2 years are presumed unreasonable, though employers can still argue for longer periods in exceptional circumstances.

Yes, but it is more difficult than in many states. You must demonstrate that the restriction is unreasonable in scope, duration, or geography, or that the employer does not have a legitimate business interest to protect. Florida courts cannot refuse to enforce a non-compete solely based on hardship to the employee.

Florida recognizes trade secrets, confidential information, substantial customer relationships, customer goodwill, and specialized training as legitimate business interests that can support a non-compete.