Tortious interference laws help maintain a competitive yet fair playing field in the business world. This legal term refers to the interference by one party with the business relationships or contracts of another party, in hopes of causing economic harm. When this occurs, a lawsuit can be taken against the meddling party. Find out how this area of business law works below.

What Are the Elements of a Tortious Interference Claim?

Tortious interference can take various forms. For example, a business is about to be sold, but the final paperwork concluding the sale hasn't been signed. If an individual interferes to stop the sale of the business—for example, by leaking sensitive information about the business—and the deal falls through, this could be considered tortious interference.

Another example might be if one individual threatens or blackmails another to get them to violate a contract or end a working relationship. Yet another possibility is for a person to offer their goods or services well below standard market prices to encourage a breach of contract.

In any of these cases, specific points must be met to qualify as tortious interference. First, a valid contract must have existed, and the offending party must have known about this contract. Second, the offending party must have acted intentionally and wrongfully—for instance, via blackmail—to interfere with that contract. Third, that action must have resulted in harm to the contractual relationship. 

What Kinds of Damages Can You Sue For?

If you undertake a tortious interference business law claim, you can sue for economic damages. If your business lost money as a result of the contract interference, this is one factor to consider. There is also the possibility of a prospective loss or damages in the future. Finally, there may be a question of reputational damage to address.

Business law is complex, and a tortious interference case requires the knowledge of a skilled lawyer. Trust Luke A. Weiland, Attorney at Law, of Wisconsin Rapids, WI, to help. This law firm advises clients with personalized, straightforward advice. Attorney Weiland will cut the legal jargon and explain your options to you clearly, whether you turn to him to handle a high-stakes corporate law case or an acrimonious divorce. Review the law firm’s services online. To meet with a business law expert, call (715) 422-6808.