Los Angeles Trade Secrets Attorneys

For many California companies, the most valuable assets are not always listed on the balance sheet. A proprietary algorithm, a refined manufacturing process, a hard-won customer list, or confidential business strategy can take years to build and only days to lose if it falls into the wrong hands.

When a former employee leaves with confidential information, when a competitor gains access to protected business materials, or when sensitive company data is misused, the damage can be immediate and severe.

Moore Ruddell LLP represents California businesses and individuals in trade secret disputes from pre-litigation investigation through trial and appeal. Our attorneys understand that these cases often require fast action to preserve evidence, secure injunctive relief, and prevent further use or disclosure of protected information.

Trade Secret Misappropriation

California has one of the most developed bodies of trade secret law in the country, with claims arising under both the California Uniform Trade Secrets Act, also known as CUTSA, and the federal Defend Trade Secrets Act, also known as DTSA. Together, these statutes protect information that derives independent economic value from not being generally known and is subject to reasonable efforts to maintain its secrecy.

We handle a wide range of trade secret matters, including:

• Departing employee disputes involving employees who leave with confidential information, customer relationships, or proprietary materials and start or join a competitor.
• Competitor misappropriation claims against businesses that hired away employees or used improper means to obtain protected trade secrets.
• Injunctive relief, including temporary restraining orders, preliminary injunctions, and expedited discovery to stop ongoing misuse before further harm occurs.
• Defense of trade secret claims for employees and competing businesses facing overbroad, unsupported, or pretextual allegations.
  
  

Restrictive Covenants in California

California treats post-employment restrictive covenants differently from most other states. Under California Business and Professions Code § 16600, agreements that restrain a person from engaging in a lawful profession, trade, or business are generally void. Recent amendments, including AB 1076 and SB 699, have further narrowed the room for employers to enforce non-compete agreements against California workers.

That does not leave companies without protection. California law still allows businesses to enforce properly drafted confidentiality and non-disclosure obligations, recognizes the duty of loyalty during employment, and provides strong remedies for actual or threatened trade secret misappropriation.

Our attorneys help businesses structure agreements that comply with current California law while protecting legitimate business interests. We also help employees understand what they can and cannot lawfully be required to sign or follow.