For each of the following three case problems prepare a typed response including the following:
1. Highlight the pertinent facts;
2. Identify the issue of law and/or fact posed by the case problem;
3. What should be the decision in the case?
4. The reasoning for such decision.
Charles Leigh, engaged in the industrial laundry business in Central City, employed Tim Close, previously employed in the home laundry business, as a route salesman. Leigh rents linens and industrial uniforms to commercial customers; the soiled linens and uniforms are picked up at regular intervals by route drivers and replaced with clean ones. Every employee is assigned a list of customers. The contract of employment stated that in consideration of being employed, upon termination of his employment, Close would not “directly or indirectly” engage in the linen supply business or any competitive business within Central City, Illinois, for a period of one year from the date when his employment under this contract ceases.” On May 10 of the following year, Leigh terminated Close’s employment for valid reasons. Thereafter Close accepted employment with Ajax Linen Service, a direct competitor of Leigh in Central City. He commenced soliciting former customers whom he had called on for Leigh and obtained some of them as customers for Ajax. Will Leigh be able to enforce the provisions of the contract?