Contracts form the foundation of many business relationships. But when one side does not live up to the agreement, you may need to contact your Silver Spring, MD business litigation lawyer. Whether it is a missed payment, delayed delivery, or a complete failure to perform, the team at Eric Siegel Law is ready to use over 30 years of legal experience to help you right those wrongs. Read on to learn more about broken contracts, and contact us today to get started.
Review The Contract Terms
The first step after a breach is to carefully review the contract itself. Look at the specific obligations outlined for both parties, as well as any deadlines, payment schedules, or performance standards. Pay attention to clauses that describe what happens if one side fails to perform. Some agreements include penalties, dispute resolution processes, or even a requirement to give notice before taking legal action.
Document The Breach
It is important to keep a detailed record of the breach. Save emails, letters, invoices, or any other communications that show the other party failed to meet their obligations. If the breach involves late or defective performance, take notes and gather proof of the problem. Organized documentation helps establish a timeline and supports your position if the dispute escalates.
Communicate With The Other Party
In many cases, a breach of contract may be the result of a misunderstanding, a temporary setback, or poor communication. Reaching out to the other party directly can sometimes resolve the problem without further conflict. Be clear and professional in your communication, and confirm important points in writing. If a resolution is reached, document the agreement to avoid future disputes.
Consider Alternative Solutions
Not every breach requires going straight to court. Many contracts include mediation or arbitration clauses that provide a different way to resolve disputes. Even without such clauses, both sides may agree to attempt settlement negotiations to avoid the time and cost of litigation. Exploring these options can sometimes save resources and lead to a more efficient outcome.
Evaluate The Impact Of The Breach
Some breaches may be minor and cause little harm, while others such as wage disputes may seriously disrupt your business. It helps to evaluate the financial and operational impact before deciding how to proceed. Ask whether the breach is material, meaning it strikes at the core of the agreement, or if it is something smaller that can be corrected. This assessment will guide whether pursuing legal action makes sense.
Seek Legal Guidance
If attempts to resolve the breach directly are unsuccessful, it may be time to seek professional advice. A business or commercial litigation lawyer can review your contract, examine your documentation, and help you decide on the most effective strategy. Depending on the situation, that might include sending a demand letter, negotiating a settlement, or filing a lawsuit for damages.
Contact Us Today
At Eric Siegel Law, we understand how disruptive a broken contract can be to your business. Taking the right steps early can help protect your investment and give you options for recovery. If you are facing a contract dispute, we encourage you to speak with a business litigation lawyer who can review your case and provide guidance tailored to your situation. Contact us today to discuss how we may be able to help you move forward.