No compete contract with attorney?

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Aaron M. · Answer

@Kevin Fox

Thank you for your reply. I was asking because I didn't know the proper procedure.  The attorney is actually a really nice guy.  But them more books that I read, the more they tell me to guard against everything. And with any professional relationship, they are best to map out while both parties are still friends.

Kevin Fox · Answer

You could, of course, have an alternative attorney draft up a non-comp agreement.  The real question I would be asking though is; why are you using a lawyer whom you suspect may stab you in the back, if given the chance?

I would think any lawyer worth paying is going to be wise enough not to put all that they've invested in obtaining their license, both financially and academically,  on the line over one deal.  Not to mention, even if he were to somehow keep his license, I am fairly certain the best way to go about ensuring you NEVER again get business as an attorney is by utilizing your clients sensitive/private information exclusively for your own gain.

Having said that, people seem to be getting more dumb/selfish by the day, so I can certainly see where your concern is coming from.

Account Closed · Answer

@Aaron M.  Paperwork would not help.  If he wants to do something that inappropriate he would simply hide it from you, if you made him sign something.

Account Closed · Answer

It's called a NDA, and you can find them in a lot of places.  NOLO has one, for example.

Kevin Fox · Answer

I see exactly where you're coming from. In real estate, any "preventative" maintenance is encouraged; property, vendors, relationships, or otherwise.

Nick C. · Answer

Not that I know of, but you could have another lawyer draft up a non compete to give to the first lawyer.

Seriously though, if he cares about his profession at all, he won't try a stunt like that. He signed that non compete when he graduated from law school. He has a fiduciary responsibility to you if he's drafting the contract for you. I wouldn't be worried at all.

Russell Brazil · Answer

Most professionals would not do that, be it a lawyer, lender, agent. If they did...they would put at risk their license to practice their profession, which is considerably more valuable than that property.

No compete contract with attorney?

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