A recent decision by the Appeals Court in Massachusetts highlights the often convoluted issue of non-compete clauses in employment contracts. The lawsuit An employee with a Massachusetts company had an employment agreement which contained a non-compete clause. When that employee left the company, another employee (presumably his supervisor) released him from the non-compete provision, meaning…
ABC-TV show actors question legality of employment contract
A popular television comedy show that airs on ABC is being sued by its cast of character actors. Beloved by many in the Worcester, Massachusetts, area, the show “Modern Family” just wrapped its third season and was recently nominated for 14 Emmy Awards, more than any other on television. According to the suit filed jointly…
Corporate dispute takes turn in Appellate Court
While we don’t usually cover workers’ compensation topics, this is a case from another state that may set precedent here. Because we defend and fight for Worcester, Massachusetts, employees and employers when it comes to corporate disputes and business litigation, we took notice of this Court of Appeals case that switched the burden of proof…
Non-compete contract dispute: Employers 1, employee 0
When employees sign a non-compete agreement with their employers as a condition of their employment or separation, it is imperative that they follow it to the letter of the law. Some of our readers in Massachusetts may be thinking about getting back into the job market after taking a requisite break from their industry of…
U.S./Swiss company battle over cost of foodservice for troops
Remember how the Pentagon got in trouble for purchasing $640 toilet seats and $400 hammers? This time, the defense department in hot water over a food and water dispute. The Defense Logistics Agency, which supervises the supply of food and beverages to our Massachusetts sons and daughters in Afghanistan, is battling over a multi-billion dollar…
Airlines industry facing major labor contract restructuring
The strength of unions representing employee rights continues to dwindle. One of the remaining union contract strongholds was in the airline industry. However, with mergers and falling profits, the airline industry is going through a major labor relations restructuring, according to an industrial relations professor at Massachusetts’ Clark University. American Airlines is in federal bankruptcy…
Business contract and employee agreement language is crucial
When billions of dollars and world-renowned brands are involved, more than the stock market numbers are at risk. Corporate reputations and the possibility of doing future business with new partners are also at stake. That’s why developing contracts that protect the livelihood of your Massachusetts company, now and in the future, are vital. Contract dispute…