What does a "non-compete agreement" in PI work restrict?

A non-compete agreement in the context of private investigation work is primarily focused on restricting employees from working with competing firms after they leave their job. This type of agreement is designed to protect the business interests of an employer by preventing former employees from using their knowledge, skills, and connections gained during employment to benefit a competing company.

The rationale behind such agreements lies in the sensitivity and confidentiality of the information that private investigators may deal with. By ensuring that former employees do not join competing firms, the employer can maintain a competitive edge and safeguard proprietary information, methodologies, and client relationships developed during their tenure.

While other options address important aspects of PI work, they do not directly align with the core function of a non-compete agreement, which is specifically aimed at post-employment restrictions regarding competitive employment.