By Nancy Shilepsky, Matthew Moschella and David Michel ( September 7, 2017, 12:00 PM EDT) -- Representing an employee that is departing from a company to join an alleged competitor can be one of the most challenging, contentious and fast-moving situations employment lawyers handle. There are myriad interests and considerations to evaluate and balance. For example, one of the most common misconceptions is that, in California, employees move freely between jobs in complete disregard of the concerns that might restrict them elsewhere. However, even in California's supposedly laissez-faire employment landscape, employees who do not manage their career moves carefully can find themselves unemployed and in legal trouble. Having legal advice early in the process can make a critical difference and increase the chances of a smooth transition....