Rule 5.6 - Restrictions on Right To PracticeA lawyer shall not participate in offering or making:
(a) a partnership, shareholders, operating, employment, or other similar agreement that restricts the right of a lawyer to practice after termination of the relationship, except an agreement concerning benefits upon retirement; or(b) an agreement in which a restriction on the lawyer's right to practice is part of the settlement of a client controversy. 2004 ABA Model Rule Comment
RULE 5.6 RESTRICTIONS ON RIGHT TO PRACTICE
[1] An agreement restricting the right of lawyers to practice after leaving a firm not only limits their professional autonomy but also limits the freedom of clients to choose a lawyer. Paragraph (a) prohibits such agreements except for restrictions incident to provisions concerning retirement benefits for service with the firm.[2] Paragraph (b) prohibits a lawyer from agreeing not to represent other persons in connection with settling a claim on behalf of a client.[3] This Rule does not apply to prohibit restrictions that may be included in the terms of the sale of a law practice pursuant to Rule 1.17.N.H. R. Prof'l. Cond. 5.6