Post-termination restrictions

Leaving a job can be stressful – and often comes with uncertainty about what you can and cannot do next. Many employment contracts include post-termination restrictions (also known as restrictive covenants). These clauses may limit your ability to work for competitors, contact clients, or use confidential information.

At TWM Solicitors, our Employment Law team provides clear, practical advice to employees on the scope, enforceability, and impact of these clauses. We help you understand your rights and protect your future career opportunities.

What are post-termination restrictions?

Post-termination restrictions are clauses in your employment contract that may apply after your employment ends. Common types include:

• Non-compete – preventing you from working for a competitor for a set period
• Non-solicitation – restricting you from approaching former clients or colleagues
• Non-dealing – stopping you from doing business with former clients, even if they approach you
• Confidentiality – prohibiting the use or disclosure of sensitive business information.

These clauses are often time-limited (e.g. 3–12 months) and may apply within a specific geographic area or industry.

Are these clauses enforceable?

Not all post-termination restrictions are legally enforceable. To be valid, they must:

• Protect a legitimate business interest (e.g. client relationships or trade secrets)
• Be reasonable in scope, duration, and geography
• Not go further than necessary to protect the employer’s interests.

Our solicitors can assess whether the restrictions in your contract are likely to be enforceable and advise you on your options.

How we can help

We offer tailored legal advice to employees on:

• Reviewing post-termination clauses before signing a contract
• Understanding your obligations when leaving a role
• Negotiating the terms of restrictive covenants
• Responding to threats of enforcement or legal action
• Defending against injunctions or breach of contract claims.

If you’re concerned about how post-termination restrictions may affect your next role or business venture, we’ll help you navigate the situation with confidence.