Austin Tortious Interference Claims And Business Tort Litigation
It is devastating to watch a competitor or third party ruin a deal you worked hard to build. Fortunately, under Texas law, you have the right to hold these parties accountable when they use wrongful tactics to break your contracts or stall your business growth.
Dunham LLP handles complex business disputes across Austin and throughout Texas. Our firm brings more than 30 years of litigation experience, an AV Preeminent* rating and a trial-tested approach built for serious business conflicts.
Existing Contracts Vs. Prospective Business Relationships
When a tortious interference claim involves an existing contract, the claim involves an allegation that a third party intentionally interfered with that contract and caused the breach. These claims are generally stronger than those involving prospective business agreements, since the underlying relationship between the two parties is already there.
In comparison, a tortious interference claim involving a prospective business relationship requires proof that a third party, the defendant, acted in a way that went beyond normal competitiveness to interfere with that expected financial deal.
The Four Required Elements Under Texas Law
To successfully make a tortious interference claim, plaintiffs generally must show that:
- A valid contract or business relationship existed or was expected
- The defendant intentionally interfered with that relationship or expectancy
- Actual disruption occurred as a result of the defendant’s actions
- The business suffered measurable financial damages
Our knowledgeable tortious interference lawyer in Austin uses their extensive experience to help ensure every piece of evidence supports a strong representation.
Common Defenses In Tortious Interference Cases
Several defenses tend to arise with frequency in these cases, including:
- Legal justification or privilege: The defendant was properly protecting their own financial or contractual interests.
- Lack of intentional conduct: The defendant was unaware of the relationship between the other two parties or their own conduct was accidental or indirect.
- No valid contract or business expectancy: The relationship between the affected parties was purely speculative or never enforceable.
In most cases, a defense will generally revolve around the idea that a defendant’s conduct was not wrongful or unlawful under the circumstances.
Recoverable Damages In Texas Business Interference Claims
Recoverable damages may include lost profits, reputational harm or punitive damages in cases involving willful misconduct.
Our focus on high performance helps ensure that every potential damage category is explored to maximize your final award.
Learn More About Dunham LLP’s Trial-Tested Litigation Approach
Our firm uses aggressive discovery strategies to uncover internal communications, expose hidden motives and build strong courtroom narratives. Dunham LLP can help preserve contracts, evidence and future opportunities. Dial 512-764-3986 or use the contact form to discuss your Texas business litigation matter now.
*AV®, AV Preeminent®, Martindale-Hubbell Distinguished and Martindale-Hubbell Notable are certification marks used under license in accordance with the Martindale-Hubbell certification procedures, standards and policies. Martindale-Hubbell® is the facilitator of a peer-review rating process. Ratings reflect the anonymous opinions of members of the bar and the judiciary. Martindale-Hubbell® Peer Review Ratings™ fall into two categories – legal ability and general ethical standards.