Breach of contract occurs when one party violates the terms of the agreement outlined in the document. If you commit this act, you can face financial consequences as well as damage to your reputation. To prevent this, you need an effective civil defense. The contract lawyers of The Law Office of W. Randall Holcomb PLLC in Greensboro, NC, often turn to the following defenses to protect their clients from breach of contract claims.

1. Fraud

When two parties enter into a contract, both are legally obligated to be honest. If one party lies about their circumstances or fails to disclose a material fact that is important to the other party's decision, then the contract is likely invalid. If the court determines the agreement was fraudulent, you will not be held responsible for breach of contract. The same is true if the misinformation was accidental. While the other party may not have committed fraud, you still can't be held to a contract that contains false statements.

2. Duress

If you were pressured into a contract with threats of physical, financial, or legal action, that agreement is invalid. However, in some cases, the other party may exert undue influence rather issue overt threats. If your contract lawyer can demonstrate how another party caused you to enter into an agreement you wouldn't have accepted of your own free will, you may be able to break that contract without legal consequences.

3. Frustration of Purpose

Contracts are designed with a purpose in mind. When you agree to provide or pay a loan or deliver certain services, there is an understanding between the parties regarding the reason you are doing so. If this purpose is frustrated, meaning circumstances change in a way which prevents the purpose from being achieved, the contract is no longer valid. For example, if your home is destroyed through no fault of your own, you will not be held responsible for continuing to pay your mortgage, because the original purpose of that agreement was to provide you with housing.

If you are being accused of breach of contract, the court will want to hear your reasons. A good contract lawyer can help you present your case effectively, increasing the likelihood of a favorable outcome. The Law Office of W. Randall Holcomb PLLC focuses on business litigation, including contract disputes, so you can trust their expertise. You can schedule a consultation by calling (336) 888-8760. Visit their website to learn more about their practice areas.