Contracts form the backbone of many successful businesses in Houston. Therefore, when a contract is intentionally interfered with by a third party, it can cause the parties to the contract to suffer serious harm. When this happens, the harmed party may want to pursue a wrongful interference with contractional relations claim.
What are the elements of an intentional interference claim?
Those who are alleging intentional interference with contractual relations bear the burden of proving the elements of such a claim. First, they must show that they had a valid contract with a third party. Second, they must show the defendant knew there was a contract and did something wrongful to interfere with it. Third, they must show that the defendant intentionally caused the contract to be breached or disrupted. Finally, they must be able to show that the defendant’s wrongful actions actually led to a breach of the contract or a disruption in its execution.
What are some ways a third party can interfere with a contract?
There are several types of wrongful conduct that could cause intentional interference. One type of wrongful conduct is if the defended purposely did something to appropriate the benefits the plaintiff would have received under the contract. Another type of wrongful conduct is if the defendant’s actions were an independent and intention legal wrong. Finally, wrongful conduct could be found if the defendant committed it for the sole purpose of causing the plaintiff to suffer damages.
Pursuing litigation for a wrongful interference claim
When it comes to a wrongful interference claim, it is important that plaintiffs take action to protect their rights. Business disputes can be costly in time, energy and money, so it is important to work with professionals who understand the law and how it applies to the facts of your case so that a satisfactory result can be met in a timely manner. Business litigation attorneys in Houston may be a useful resource to those who believe a third party wrongfully interfered with one of their contracts.