A company puts a number of measures in place in order to protect its assets. Insurance policies and an employee handbook, for example, are recommended for many Houston businesses. Unfortunately, despite best efforts, some organizations still fall victim to cases involving the theft of trade secrets, which can be particularly damaging to business. One Texas company is now pursuing litigation against an employee who allegedly gave away confidential information to a competitor.
A supervisor with a chemical inspections company was privy to certain trade secrets through working in his role maintaining and overseeing field operations. According to the company, the employee gained knowledge regarding confidential information. The man left the company to take a job with a competitor and, according to a court complaint, gave away trade secrets to his new employer.
The chemical inspections company has taken the matter to court, alleging the former employee committed a breach of contract and misappropriation of trade secrets. In the lawsuit, the company also accuses the man of conspiracy and violating the Texas Theft Liability Act. Other charges include misappropriation of time, labor, skill and money and breach of fiduciary duty. In the suit, the company is seeking damages, pre- and post-judgment interest and court costs.
It is imperative for a business to take swift action in the event an employee betrays a contract or gives away confidential information. These are serious charges that can have devastating effects on an organization. A business owner should contact an attorney who can effectively represent the company in business litigation and pursue justice.
Source: The Southeast Texas Record, “Company sues former employee over trade secrets,” Melody Dareing, Feb. 24, 2014