Tort law doesn’t just protect individuals from harm – it also protects businesses from financial damage. To maintain a fair playing field amidst fierce competition, corporate law guards against so-called tortious interference – when one party deliberately interferes with the contracts or relationships of another with the goal of causing economic harm. Here’s what you need to know about this legal concept. 

A Guide to Tortious Interference

What Constitutes Tortious Interference

Say a company has a contract to work with a certain supplier, but an alternative supplier wants the job for themselves. This interloping supplier might induce the company to break the contract by offering a below-market price, for example, or by blackmailing someone at the company. These actions may be considered tortious interference. The law also covers situations in which rivals attempt to break off an informal or non-contractual business relationship. Purposefully meddling with such a “handshake agreement” could qualify as tortious interference. 

How Corporate Law Protects You 

If you believe you are the victim of tortious interference and the above criteria are met, you can sue for damages. A corporate law professional will help you determine if you have a valid claim and will assist in properly filing your suit. An attorney will advise whether you should allege interference with an existing agreement or interference with a prospective economic advantage, for example. Your lawyer may also suggest pursuing both options to improve your odds of at least one succeeding. If the courts agree that tortious interference occurred, you will be entitled to damages to compensate for your monetary losses. 

How to Prove Tortious Interference

Key criteria must be met for a tortious interference claim to succeed. A valid contract or economic expectation must have existed between the plaintiff and a third party. The defendant must have known about this relationship and purposefully taken improper action to interfere. The plaintiff must also demonstrate that they suffered damages as a result. An attorney will thoroughly evaluate evidence and prior legal precedent to strategize and build your case. 

When it comes to claims of tortious interference, you’ll want an experienced attorney on your side. For help in the Hudson Valley area, trust MacVean, Lewis, Sherwin & McDermott, P.C. of Middletown, NY. With over 130 years of experience, this law firm offers quality legal representation rooted in an in-depth knowledge of tort law. They have a proven track record of successful outcomes for their clients. Learn more about the corporate law firm online. For a free consultation, call (845) 343-3000.