Imagine you just got a big contract with a new client, and all seems well. Suddenly, a rival spreads lies and misinformation and causes your client to break the deal. Sadly, this happens often and shows the problem of tortious interference.
Florida’s demanding business world requires you to watch for tortious interference. Tortious interference occurs when others intentionally disrupt your business deals or relationships, causing financial harm. Knowing Florida’s tortious interference laws can help protect your business.
Understanding tortious interference
Florida law recognizes two main types of tortious interference. The first type concerns contractual relationships, where a third party knowingly causes one party to break a valid contract.
The second type covers business relationships, covering interference in current and future business deals, even without formal contracts.
Required elements for legal claims
To win a Florida tortious interference case, plaintiffs must prove these key points:
- A valid business relationship existed through contracts or proven deals that would have gone on without interference
- The defendant knew about this business deal when acting
- The defendant’s interference had no good reason and was meant to break the deal
- The plaintiff lost money due to this interference
Knowing these points is vital for building a strong case if you must go to court.
Available legal defenses
Defendants facing tortious interference claims may use these valid defenses:
- Proof shows the interference served a genuine business need
- Records prove the disruption happened unintentionally
- Documents show that the plaintiff did not lose any money
These defenses can be key in protecting your business from false claims.
Protecting your business
Companies should use these steps to guard against tortious interference:
- Write detailed contracts that spell out all duties and responsibilities between business deals
- Keep good records of all business deals and communications
- Train staff well so they know their duties regarding business deals.
Taking steps to prevent these issues helps shield your business from possible interference.
We help businesses dealing with tortious interference and other business litigation. Contact us for a consultation.
