Florida’s Uniform Trade Secrets Act cannot be used to Restrict Competition

Florida’s Uniform Trade Secrets Act is contained in Florida Statutes Chapter 688.  This Act authorizes  courts to take reasonable steps to preserve the confidentiality of trade secrets including ordering injunctive relief to prevent a party (such as a former employee) from misappropriating trade secrets.  Norton v. American LED Technology, Inc., 43 Fla.L.Weekly D951a (Fla. 1st DCA 2018).   However, as confirmed by the First District in Norton, Florida’s Uniform Trade Secrets Act cannot be used as a sword to restrict or stifle direct competition.  In other words, it is improper for a trial court to issue a temporary injunction restricting direct competition based on Florida’s Uniform Trade Secrets Act.  Norton, supra.

Please make sure to consult with counsel if you have an issue dealing with trade secrets or the preservation of the same.  This includes your rights when you believe a party is misappropriating your trade secrets. 

Please contact David Adelstein at [email protected] or (954) 361-4720 if you have questions or would like more information regarding this article. You can follow David Adelstein on Twitter @DavidAdelstein1.