Legal Question in Legal Ethics in Pennsylvania

Theft of Client Information

Employee quit salon abruptly after 18 mos. employment to work at nearby salon. She did not have clients upon being hired and was given many new clients during her employment. Employee took client info cards and has contacted clients to inform where she is currently working. There was not a non-compete agreement, however employee manual states theft involves taking client information and records, and sales and marketing information, as well as not being able to use our name, image, or any such likeness in any verbal or written form of advertising without written permission of the owners. Is there anything we can do about this?


Asked on 1/16/06, 3:05 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Edward Fronczkiewicz, Jr. Miksch and Fronczkiewicz

Re: Theft of Client Information

I think you have a few options here. The option you ultimately choose really depends on what you are trying to accomplish in this situation.

On the criminal side, you can contact the local police and see about pressing charges for theft or something similar.

On the civil side, you also have a few options. You can do anything from having a letter sent to her (its amazing sometimes what a letter from an attorney can accomplish). You could also potentially file a lawsuit for economic loss suffered as a result of her conduct. You could also possibly file for injunctive relief to prevent her from further contacting clients of your salon.

Again, deciding on what action to take is really a function of identifying your ultimate goal in this situation. Speaking with an attorney would be very beneficial to you as you can explore all of your potential options and discuss to pros and cons of each.

I do offer a free initial consultation. So, if you would like to discuss this matter further, please feel free to contact me via email, [email protected] or by clicking on my "Attorney Profile Link" for my telephone number and other contact information.

Regards.

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Answered on 1/16/06, 3:59 pm


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