Establish the agreement
The contract may include a signed document, purchase order, standard terms and later changes. We look at which terms apply and the responsibilities of each party.
Business Disputes
Breach of Contract
When a customer, supplier or business partner fails to do what was agreed, the next decision can affect both cash flow and the relationship. We can review the terms, the breach alleged and the options for responding.
Understanding your next steps
How we can help
Assess the loss and remedies
An unpaid sum, defective performance or missed delivery may call for different remedies. Evidence of loss and steps taken to reduce it can affect a claim.
Plan the response
We can discuss correspondence, negotiation and proceedings, including any dispute-resolution clause. Ending a contract or stopping performance without a proper basis can create further liability.
A clear way forward
What happens next
What to have ready
Gather all contract versions, terms, orders, invoices and correspondence. Set out what was promised, what happened and the financial effect.
Your next step
Tell us about any response date, ongoing supply or threatened termination. We can agree a review and discuss a proportionate response.
Planning ahead
Fees and timescales
01 / Fees
What the costs cover
The agreement, amount in dispute and stage reached determine the work needed. We can agree an initial review before estimating negotiation or court work. We explain fees, VAT, likely third-party charges and the risk of paying another party’s costs.
02 / Timescales
Timing and deadlines
Contractual notice requirements and legal claim deadlines must be checked. If a business relationship is still operating, advice before terminating or withholding performance can be particularly useful.
Read our published Price Guide, then contact us to confirm the work you need and the costs involved.
View Price GuideUseful to know
Your questions, answered
Does the contract have to be signed?
Not always. An agreement may arise in other ways, but proving its terms can be harder. Provide the full exchange of documents and messages.
Can I end the contract immediately?
That depends on the terms and the nature of the breach. Get advice before terminating, as an unjustified termination may itself breach the contract.
Can lost profits be claimed?
Possibly, but the basis, evidence and legal limits need assessment. A claimed figure is not automatically recoverable.
Can the dispute be settled without proceedings?
Often it is worth exploring. A negotiated solution can address payment, future performance or an orderly end to the relationship. We can discuss the risks and terms.
General information for England and Wales. Contact us for advice about your circumstances.
SJS Solicitors · Balham