is it legal for my employer to ask me to sign a noncompete agreement after i have worked for the company for 15 years.

yes. the employer can request a 'non-compete' agreement. however, the nj courts have not upheld the 'non-compete agreements' which are overly broad. you will not be kept from working at another job unless the employer built a hospital wing for you. ed dimon, esq. 732-797-1600

In order to make changes to an existing employment arrangement, an employer needs to offer something in return, often called consideration. There is nothing which prevents an employer from asking you to sign a noncompete, even after years of employment, but any new agreement will require additional compensation. If you would like to talk more about the specifics of your case, please give my office a call. Initial consultations are always free and believe it or not, I'm actually a pretty nice guy.   The Law Office of Robert Colby, LLC 73 Church Street New Brunswick, NJ 08901 www.robertcolbylaw.com (732) 609-3915 Admitted in New Jersey