Business Litigation Lawyer Washington, DC
A reality in today’s market is that litigation is part of the business. A Business Litigation Lawyer Washington DC trusts can assist with conflicts in the workplace, commercial disputes between companies, allegations of faulty or dangerous products, and other business-related problems, businesses regularly have the need for a lawyer that specializes in business litigation and other business-related legal matters. Without a reliable business litigation lawyer who is familiar with their particular kind of business or company, many owners are required to turn their attention away from their customers or clients and from running their business or company, to dispute resolution and courtrooms. An experienced Washington, DC business litigation lawyer whose sound legal strategies reflect a deep understanding of business principles can help to keep your business out of the courtroom, and to prevail in the event an issue cannot be resolved without going there.
Business & Litigation
When a business owner is facing the possibility of litigation, they need to take proactive steps to protect their legal rights and financial interests. Retaining the help of a skilled Washington DC business litigation lawyer who is experienced with successfully helping businesses do this can be an efficient and effective way to get this done compared to trying to do this on your own or with a lawyer who does not have what it takes to handle the job.
Eric Siegel Law is equipped to handle a wide array of business litigation issues. From small to medium-sized business disputes to the most complex corporate litigation, Eric Siegel excels at protecting the rights of businesses and their owners while minimizing risks in litigation.
Our business litigation practice includes but is not limited to the following areas of representation for plaintiffs and defendants:
- Breach of a contract or other types of business agreements with other businesses
- Business torts
- Commercial real estate disputes
- Compliance with laws and government regulations
- Construction disputes
- Intra-business disputes such as partner disputes
- Loan disputes and lender liability claims
When the viability and health of your business are at stake, it is important to have a reliable lawyer on your side who understands the complexities of modern business practices and problems. Clients of Eric Siegel Law trust us with their sensitive and critical litigation because we consistently deliver favorable results.
When possible, we are aggressive in our quest to find litigation solutions that do not include having to go to trial. We have significant experience with successfully handling mediation and arbitration and only go to trial when it is absolutely necessary to do this to get our clients what they are entitled to. We like to settle – but we don’t settle for less than what our clients need and for all of what they should be compensated for. When we structure settlements, we try to look at all aspects of the overall insurance, regulatory, and tax implications for both, the near and long-term future. When a trial is necessary to get our clients what they should be compensated with, we bring with us to the courtroom our experience, exceptional skills, and our impressive record of success.
If you need a highly rated business litigation lawyer in Washington, D.C. with a track record of successfully defending their clients’ needs, contact Eric Siegel Law for a free consultation today.
In Washington D.C., it is unlawful for a third party to intentionally interfere with a commercial contract that has been agreed upon by two other parties. Indeed, this type of misconduct is known as tortious interference. Victims of tortious interference can bring a legal claim to hold the third party liable for any damages that they have sustained because of the contract breach. The following is a brief overview of tortious interference. If you are having contract issues, contact Eric Siegel Law to speak with a Washington, D.C. business litigation lawyer.
Tort Claims
There are two types of tort claims a plaintiff can file if he or she has suffered an injury. A negligent tort is filed when the defendant (at-fault party) owed the plaintiff (the victim) a duty of care, breached that duty of care, and that breach caused the plaintiff harm. An intentional tort is filed when the defendant intended to cause harm to the plaintiff or otherwise knew their actions would cause harm.
As a business litigation lawyer in Washington, D.C. can explain, there are two types of tortious interference claims. The first type is called interference with prospective economic advantage (“IWPEA”). There are many acts that fall under the IWPEA umbrella, including contracts. The second type is called interference with contractual relations (“IWCR”). Inducing a breach of contract falls under this type.
The Elements of Tortious Inference
Allegations that a third party tried to undermine a valid contract are not sufficient enough to establish liability. In order to prove tortious interference under the law, a Washington, D.C. business litigation lawyer must be able to prove the following five things before the court:
- There was a valid contract between the plaintiff and another party
- The (third-party) defendant knew about the existence of that contract
- The defendant intended to disrupt the contract
- The actions of the defendant made contract performance less likely, or altogether
- impossible
- The plaintiff sustained real economic harm because of the contract interference
An Example of Tortious Interference
The following is an example of tortious interference:
- John owns a widget distribution company. He sells his company to Dave. In the sales contract,
- John agrees he will not sell widgets anymore, agreeing he is out of the widget business. A
- couple of years later, John is contacted by Jim. Jim owns a widget manufacturing plant, and he
- talks John into distributing his widgets. John agrees, even though this is in direct violation of his
- contract with Dave.
Dave can file a tortious interference lawsuit against Jim because he had induced John to violate his contract with Dave. Jim would be liable for any financial damages Dave suffered from loss of business. Dave could also file a breach of contract lawsuit against John, as well.
Were You the Victim of Tortious Interference?
A skilled business litigation lawyer Washington, D.C. clients recommend from our firm can help. At Eric Siegel Law, we have extensive experience drafting and reviewing business contracts, as well as litigating contractual disputes. To set up your free business law consultation, please contact us today.
5 Questions You Should Ask a Business Litigation Lawyer
Business litigation can be complicated, and it’s important to work with an attorney who understands your specific needs. Your lawyer can help you develop the best defense strategy to protect your business interests, and in some cases, he or she may even be able to help you get compensation for harm that has been done by your competition. If you’re facing a legal challenge, here are five questions you should ask your business litigation lawyer during your first consultation.
1) What Makes Your Services Unique?
No two businesses are alike, so it’s important to find a business litigation lawyer who has the experience and knowledge to handle your specific case. When you meet with a potential lawyer, be sure to ask about their experience with cases like yours. Be sure to choose a lawyer who will work well with you and provide exceptional service from start to finish. A knowledgeable attorney can offer guidance on everything from company formation to intellectual property issues. This is why it is important to talk with someone familiar with your legal needs before you decide which law firm or lawyer is right for you. Not all law firms have the same services or expertise in all areas of business law, so don’t forget to ask what types of services they offer.
2) Can You Give An Example Of A Case You Handled Recently?
Make sure to ask your potential attorney if you can have more information about cases they have handled recently. Verify the outcomes of those cases because if an attorney does not have a good track record, you should not choose them. Examples of cases can also help you better see what areas your potential attorney specializes in that are good for your case.
3) How Long Have You Been Practicing?
When you’re looking for a business litigation lawyer, you want someone who has plenty of experience. After all, the more experience they have, the more likely they are to have handled a case similar to yours. Furthermore, an experienced lawyer will know how to navigate the court system and will be better equipped to get you the outcome you desire. The success rate of your business litigation lawyer is important to consider.
4) How Much Will It Cost Me?
Hiring an attorney is not cheap. In addition to the hourly rate that most attorneys charge, you will also have to pay for things like court fees, deposition costs, and expert witness fees. Before you hire an attorney, be sure to ask about all of the potential costs so that you can budget accordingly. It’s important to have a clear understanding of what your case entails before hiring an attorney. Your lawyer should be able to walk you through the legal process and help you understand your options in order to decide which strategy is best for your situation.
5) Do You Work On Contingency Or Hourly Rates?
One of the first questions you should ask your business litigation lawyer is how they charge for their services. Some lawyers work on an hourly basis, while others work on a contingency basis. The type of fee arrangement will affect how much you ultimately pay for legal services. With hourly rates, you will likely end up paying more in total as opposed to working with a lawyer who charges on a contingency basis. A contingent fee means that the law firm only gets paid if there is success in court or settlement negotiations.
Contact a business litigation attorney today at Eric Siegel Law!
Client Reviews
“Attorney Eric Siegel is a very professional, committed, and attention to detail attorney. He will keep in touch at all times and make himself available. He gave me the right advice on how to handle my case and I appreciate this lawyer and I recommend him to anyone.”
Jimmy Malaver