1. Request a written statement informing you of the truthful reason for your termination. (See Minnesota Statutes 181.933).

  2. Request your personnel file. (See Minnesota Statutes 181.961).

  3. Demand Payment of wages due. (See Minnesota Statutes 181.13 and  181.14)

This is a question that many employment attorneys are asked frequently as people try to find a way out of their agreement. It’s important to note that non-compete agreements are governed by state law and not federal law. This means that you need an employment lawyer who is an expert in your state’s laws to help determine if your non-compete clause can be enforced against you. In California almost no non-compete agreements, regardless of circumstances, are enforceable. Other states allow and enforce non-compete agreements but depending on the state the law may favor the employee and other states the law may favor the employer. If your non-compete clause states that it is governed by a specific state’s law, then your attorney needs to know the non-compete laws in that state.

Have an attorney review and assist you with negotiating your Severance Agreement if you have been laid off or fired.  It is important to discuss your termination with an experienced employment attorney to know whether you have a case or some leverage for negotiating a severance agreement.  If a severance agreement is offered to you, you should know what you are signing and whether there are provisions that should be modified, changed or deleted.