Los Angeles Breach of Contract Lawyer
Contract Dispute Attorney Serving Clients Across Los Angeles County
Contracts play a critical role in business transactions and personal agreements. When a party fails to honor the terms of an agreement, it can lead to serious financial losses and legal disputes. A Los Angeles breach of contract lawyer can help evaluate the agreement, determine whether a breach occurred, and pursue compensation for the harm caused.
At The Law Office of Steve Lopez, APC, we represent individuals, property owners, and businesses throughout Los Angeles County, including Long Beach, Pasadena, Burbank, Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, Studio City, Sherman Oaks, and surrounding communities. Our firm assists clients in resolving contract disputes through negotiation, mediation, or litigation when necessary.
If you believe someone has violated the terms of an agreement, speaking with a Los Angeles breach of contract attorney can help you understand your legal options.
What Is a Breach of Contract Under California Law?
A breach of contract occurs when one party fails to perform obligations required under a legally enforceable agreement. Contracts may be written or oral under California law, and both types can be enforceable depending on the circumstances.
To successfully bring a breach of contract claim in California, a plaintiff generally must show:
-
A valid contract existed between the parties
-
The plaintiff performed their obligations or had a legal excuse for nonperformance
-
The defendant failed to perform their contractual obligations
-
The plaintiff suffered financial damages as a result of the breach
A Los Angeles breach of contract lawyer can help gather the necessary evidence, interpret the contract language, and pursue recovery for the losses caused by the breach.
Business Fraud and Misrepresentation in Contract Disputes
Some disputes involve more than a simple failure to perform. In certain cases, one party may have intentionally misrepresented facts in order to induce another person to enter into a contract.
Fraud may occur when someone knowingly or recklessly makes a false statement that another person reasonably relies upon when entering a transaction. These misrepresentations can occur through:
-
Emails or text messages
-
Written agreements
-
Verbal promises
-
Advertising or promotional materials
Fraud claims commonly arise in business transactions, real estate deals, investment opportunities, and service agreements. In some situations, California law allows victims of fraud to seek punitive damages in addition to financial losses.
Unfair Business Practices in California
California law also protects consumers and businesses from deceptive or unfair conduct. Under California Business and Professions Code § 17200, businesses are prohibited from engaging in fraudulent, unlawful, or misleading business practices.
Examples of unfair business practices may include deceptive advertising, misrepresenting services, or using misleading contract terms.
If a violation occurs, the court may order remedies such as:
-
Rescission of the contract
-
Restitution of money paid
-
Injunctive relief to stop unlawful conduct
-
Attorney's fees in certain cases
An experienced Los Angeles breach of contract attorney can evaluate whether consumer protection laws apply to your dispute.
Damages Available in Breach of Contract Cases
California law allows parties harmed by a breach of contract to recover financial damages intended to compensate them for their losses.
Actual Damages
Under California Civil Code § 3300, damages for breach of contract are intended to compensate the injured party for losses caused by the breach or the value of the promised performance.
These damages may include:
-
Money owed under the contract
-
The value of services or goods not delivered
-
Financial losses caused by the breach
Consequential Damages
In some cases, additional damages may be available for losses that naturally resulted from the breach, such as lost profits or expenses incurred in reliance on the agreement.
Interest on Contract Damages
Under California Civil Code § 3287, when damages are certain or capable of being calculated, a party may recover prejudgment interest from the date the loss occurred.
Attorney's Fees
If a written agreement includes an attorney's fee provision, the prevailing party may recover reasonable attorney's fees and litigation costs.
Types of Contract Disputes Our Firm Handles
The Law Office of Steve Lopez, APC represents clients in a wide range of contract disputes, including:
-
Business contract disputes
-
Real estate contract disputes
-
Construction and service agreements
-
Partnership and shareholder disputes
-
Loan and repayment agreements
-
Investment disputes
-
Commercial and consumer contract claims
Every contract dispute presents unique legal issues, and our firm works to develop strategies tailored to each client's situation.
People Also Ask
What qualifies as a breach of contract in California?
A breach of contract occurs when one party fails to perform obligations required under a valid agreement. This may include failing to pay money owed, refusing to deliver goods, or not performing promised services.
How much can you sue for breach of contract in California?
The amount depends on the financial damages caused by the breach. Courts may award compensation for actual losses, consequential damages, and in some cases attorney's fees and interest.
Can you sue for breach of an oral contract in California?
Yes. Oral contracts can be legally enforceable in California, although proving the terms of the agreement may require witness testimony or other evidence.
How long do you have to sue for breach of contract in California?
The statute of limitations is generally four years for written contracts and two years for oral contracts under California law.
Contact a Los Angeles Breach of Contract Lawyer
If you are dealing with a contract dispute, it is important to understand your rights before taking legal action. A Los Angeles breach of contract lawyer can evaluate your situation and help determine the best strategy for protecting your interests.
The Law Office of Steve Lopez, APC represents clients in breach of contract and civil litigation matters throughout Los Angeles County.
Contact our office today to schedule a consultation and discuss your case.
