Does a Non-Disclosure document really provide protection when sharing business ideas with people?

Question

If someone is sharing their idea(s) with others in business(mainly potential partners, investors, mentors and others), does a Non-Disclosure document provide good protection? Does it really stop others from stealing your idea? If someone who signs and agrees to a Non-Disclosure does steal your idea will the document protect you in court? The document generally does not include information on the idea itself, so how is there proof to protect your idea? I am talking about an idea that has no patent, hence the reason for a ND. Anyone with experience or knowledge in this area, please tell me whatever you know...Thanks

Answer 1

If you have no patent, you have little protection.

Also, if they rip you off - can you financially afford to fight them in court ? ( it isn't cheap )

You may want to rethink sharing your idea.  It sounds very risky.