Being sued is an experience no business owner ever wants to go through, but it’s one of the risks of running a company. How you handle the situation from the beginning can make all the difference in the outcome of your case. Here are the steps attorneys advise business owners to take in the event a lawsuit is filed against them.

3 Tips on What to Do If a Lawsuit Is Filed Against Your Business

1. Review the Complaint 

Typically, a lawsuit will begin by serving you with a formal complaint that will have all the details explaining why you’re being sued. Go over this document carefully to make sure you have a clear understanding of the claims brought against your business, so you can form an appropriate response. Refrain from reaching out to the plaintiff directly, regardless of how well you may know them, as you might unintentionally say something that could damage your defense. 

2. Contact Your Insurance Company 

Defending against a lawsuit can be quite costly, but fortunately, depending on the type of business insurance you have, your policy may cover all or some of the associated legal fees. You should contact your insurance company to verify your coverage and determine what kind of protection you may receive. Notify your provider of the impending lawsuit as soon as possible to ensure your coverage is upheld. 

3. Hire an Attorney 

The next step you should take without delay is to hire an experienced attorney. The quicker you retain counsel, the more time they will have to review your case, examine the evidence against you, gather information that supports your side, interview witnesses, and develop a defense strategy. They will be able to advise you on all your legal options and how best to proceed while keeping your business interests in mind.

The key to surviving a lawsuit is proper preparation to defend your operations. For over five decades, the attorneys at the Law Offices of Reuben S. F. Wong have provided Honolulu, HI, entrepreneurs with effective representation at every stage of the litigation process. Contact them at (808) 531-3526 for a free consultation, or visit their website for additional information about their practice areas.