NCJ Number
96972
Journal
Security World Volume: 21 Issue: 8 Dated: (August 1984) Pages: 85-92
Date Published
1984
Length
8 pages
Annotation
A program of documentation is presented for protecting proprietary trade secrets.
Abstract
Eight sample forms, drawn up by an attorney, can be used by employers in protecting proprietary information. They are designed for use by employees, customers, and consultants. Use of these documents can help demonstrate to a court, if necessary, that reasonable precautions were taken to protect a trade secret. Five employee forms are designed to build a paper record of the factors courts consider in deciding whether a former employee should be restricted from disclosing certain information to a new employer. These factors include whether the former employee was adequately informed about what the employer considered to be trade secrets, whether the employee was adequately informed not to use or disclose the secrets, and whether both the former employee and the new employer were advised of the possibility that trade secrets known to the employee might be used in the new employment. Another form is provided for visitors -- a confidentiality and nondisclosure agreement for visitors. In addition, forms are included for a letter on disclosure to a customer or prospective customer, as well as a letter on company policy regarding outside submissions of ideas and suggestions.