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Is This NDA Normal? How to Tell in 60 Seconds

Use this 60-second checklist to gauge whether an NDA is reasonable or worth negotiating.

Duration

Normal: 2–5 years post-relationship. Concerning: 'in perpetuity.'

Scope

Normal: marked or clearly proprietary information. Concerning: 'all information of any kind.'

Mutuality

If you'll share sensitive info too, the NDA should be mutual. One-sided is fine for hire / vendor work.

Standard exceptions

Public domain, prior knowledge, independent development, court-ordered disclosure. Missing all four is a red flag.

Hidden non-compete

Watch for restrictions on where you can work next. That's a non-compete, not an NDA.

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Not legal advice. For informational purposes only.