Minimising post-termination restrictions on future work and negotiating carve-outs to restrictive covenants

Specialist Employment Law Solicitors Across England and Wales

At Blackstone Solicitors, we advise on settlement agreements with a focus on post termination restrictions and restrictive covenants. These provisions can have a significant impact on your ability to work after leaving a job. They require careful attention during negotiations.

A well negotiated settlement agreement can reduce restrictions, create flexibility and support a smoother transition into new employment. We support both employees and employers across England and Wales in achieving balanced outcomes.

Get in touch with us today on 0330 808 0918. Alternatively, complete our online enquiry form and we will contact you.

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– John Hamilton

How we can help you

We are highly experienced in bringing the various settlement agreement cases we take on to a successful conclusion. We aim to provide comprehensive guidance at every step, offering the helping hand to lead you through the process to the outcome you desire.

Our team can offer help and advice on a wide range of settlement agreement cases, including:

Understanding Post Termination Restrictions

How Restrictive Covenants Affect Future Work

Post termination restrictions are clauses that limit what an employee can do after their employment ends. These often include non compete clauses, non solicitation of clients or staff, and restrictions on using confidential information.

While these clauses are intended to protect legitimate business interests, they can also restrict career opportunities. The scope and duration of these restrictions vary depending on the contract and the role held.

Settlement agreements provide an opportunity to review and, where appropriate, negotiate these terms.

Negotiating Carve Outs in Settlement Agreements

Creating Flexibility for Future Employment

A key part of settlement agreement negotiation is considering whether restrictive covenants can be limited or removed. In many cases, there is scope for agreement between the parties.

Carve outs may include narrowing the geographical scope of restrictions, reducing the time period, or excluding certain types of work. In some situations, restrictions may be disapplied entirely in exchange for agreed settlement terms.

We advise on the enforceability of existing covenants and whether they are likely to stand up to legal scrutiny. Not all restrictions are enforceable in full, particularly if they go beyond what is reasonably necessary to protect a business.

Careful negotiation can significantly improve future career flexibility.

Advice for Employees

Protecting Your Career Options

If you are entering a settlement agreement, it is important to understand how restrictive covenants may affect your next steps. These clauses can limit your ability to accept new roles or work in your chosen sector.

We review your contractual obligations and advise on whether restrictions are enforceable. Where possible, we negotiate reductions or carve outs that allow you to move forward with your career.

Our focus is on ensuring that your agreement is fair and does not unnecessarily restrict your future opportunities.

Support for Employers

Balancing Protection and Practicality

For employers, restrictive covenants are an important tool for protecting business interests. However, overly restrictive terms may be difficult to enforce and can lead to disputes.

We advise on drafting and negotiating balanced restrictions that provide protection while remaining reasonable. In settlement agreements, we help ensure that any agreed variations are clear and legally effective.

This approach helps reduce risk while maintaining commercial flexibility.

Why Choose Blackstone Solicitors

Trusted Employment Law Specialists

Clients choose Blackstone Solicitors because we offer more than just legal advice. We provide reassurance, clarity and a steady hand during what can often be a stressful time.

Our approach is responsive and pragmatic. We listen carefully, communicate plainly and act decisively. Every client is different, so we tailor our advice to suit your circumstances rather than relying on a one size fits all solution.

If you require expert employment law services in England and Wales, our team is here to help. Contact Blackstone Solicitors today to discuss your situation in confidence.

Contact us today

It could not be easier to get in touch with one of our expert solicitors and find out how we can help you get the outcome you want. Simply give us a call on 0330 808 0918 or complete our online contact form and a member of our team will be in touch to discuss your situation.

We are able to serve clients from across the UK and even around the world. We have offices in Cheshire and London and regularly take on clients from the Manchester and Chester areas.

Get in Touch Today

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Our Team

The award winning team is well known for their tenacious approach to their client's cases. Our highly regarded team is passionate about your success. All team members are incredibly academic and continuously strive for more.