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...