If you are in business, you could be the target of business litigation. A client or customer feels you have not met your business obligations. They believe they have been wronged in some way. They sue. All of this is the general catalyst for business litigation. While that may sound rather straightforward, it is a lot more complicated and can incorporate a myriad of legal categories.
What Categories Does Business Litigation Cover?
- Breach of Contract
- Employment
- Real Estate Disputes
- Class Actions
- Intellectual Property Disputes
- Shareholder Oppression
- Fraud
- Automotive Complaints
- Breach of Fiduciary Duty
- Partnership Disputes
What are some common misconceptions about business litigation?
- First, that suing is easy and inexpensive. Many plaintiffs underestimate the cost of litigation and don’t fully comprehend its complexities. Litigation is not a game. It can take a financial and emotional toll.
- Make no mistake. The prevailing party may win, but getting the other side to pay may be difficult. The winner may also incur court costs. The court and attorney costs for both sides may be significant.
What should I bring to an attorney?
- Most helpful to an attorney is a written chronology of events: what was done, when, and why is the framework upon which the case is litigated.
How long will the whole process take?
- Litigation can take 1-2 years or more. Unless the parties decide to settle, cases are generally not settled until the preliminary discovery stage is completed (a six to twelve-month process).
How much will litigation cost?
- Some lawyers cost as much as $1,000 per hour. The average cost for most people who require legal representation is between $200–$400 per hour. Normally, a client and their attorney will discuss the extent of the representation and agree to what the attorney will do as opposed to what the client can financially handle. Cost also depends on the attorney and the extent of their experience and reputation.
Is it crucial to hire an attorney?
- The path of business litigation is complex. The legal basis for a lawsuit can be challenged by an experienced attorney, thus nipping it in the bud. Documents challenged will need a legal opinion. Certain legal maneuvers can cut significant time off a suit, decreasing hourly attorney fees. An experienced trial attorney will find ways to put the evidence in a favorable light. In addition, experienced attorneys better understand the probable course of the litigation and the steps that will lead to a good outcome for clients.
Don’t let a business lawsuit get you down—
The Law Offices of Eric J. Proos specializes in business litigation. From starting a business to selling it, and fighting off business litigation, we are here to help. If you live in West Hollywood, Beverly Hills, Hollywood, Santa Monica, Westwood, and surrounding CA communities, call us now at (213) 784-3640.
All information provided in this article is for educational purposes only, and does not constitute legal advice. Each situation is dependent on the specific facts and must be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.