1. Definition of “Confidential Information.”
Confidential Information must have a broad enough definition to include all types of information. Information that is both tangible and intangible can fall under this topic. Only information that is already known to the receiving party and is in the public domain cannot be referred to be confidential.
2. Term of the Agreement
It is important to note that even after the Agreement’s term expires, certain information, such as trade secrets that are essential to a firm, may still be subject to confidentiality restrictions. The period must typically range from two to five years.
3. Use of the information
Some parties limit the sharing of information to a select group of the other party’s personnel or departments. The key phrase in this section is “need to know.” In essence, this paragraph mandates that the information provided be shared with those who “need to know” it and that it only be used for the purposes specified in the Agreement.
4. Exceptions to confidentiality obligations
An NDA must include certain exceptions to the confidentiality obligations. Such exceptions mainly include information disclosed during a legal process or an inquiry made by a judicial authority and information disclosed by a third party who has no duty of confidentiality towards the disclosing party.
5. Return of information
Once the NDA’s time is up, the receiving party is obligated to return the information together with any derivative information and remove it from their operating systems.
6. Remedies in case of breach
Every NDA should have a clear provision stating that, in the event of a breach, the harmed party will have the right to pursue legal action in accordance with a predetermined course of action. Because monetary compensation in these circumstances is insufficient, indemnification provisions and rights to injunction have grown to be highly popular.
7. Arbitration
An arbitration clause stipulates that, instead of engaging in lengthy and expensive litigation, the parties will arbitrate their differences.
8. Jurisdiction and Governing Laws
Different parties may be citizens of many countries, and the laws of these nations varies substantially. It is wise to be specific when deciding which laws will apply to the Agreement. The city whose courts will be granted jurisdiction in case of disputes between the parties should be chosen by the parties along with the set of governing statutes.
Conclusion
Every company has its own goals, business procedures, policies, know-how, trade secrets, and other sensitive information that it has developed through hard effort; as a result, it must maintain its confidentiality and limit the disclosure of such information to third parties. Information including client lists, confidential information, sensitive business-related information, and trade secrets must be protected by NDAs. Only a competent attorney can assist you in drafting a suitable NDA, which may help the business protect its critical information. As a result, it is recommended to engage a lawyer rather than downloading an internet document.
