When contracts are suddenly canceled or suppliers stop working with you, tortious interference might be the reason. This legal issue costs Flowood businesses money and opportunities each year, but many owners don’t spot the warning signs until it’s too late.
What is tortious interference?
Tortious interference happens when someone steps between you and your business deals on purpose. You can take legal action in Mississippi if another person or company breaks up your contracts or stops potential deals. For instance, a competitor who lies to your customers about your products or blocks your supply chain could face a tortious interference lawsuit.
Proving your case in Mississippi
To win a tortious interference case in Flowood, you must show:
- You had an active contract or business relationship
- The other party knew about this relationship
- They meant to break up the relationship
- Their actions went beyond regular competition
- You lost money because of their actions
Here’s what you need to track to build your case:
- All written agreements
- Emails and text messages about the interference
- Financial records showing your losses
- Witness statements
- Timeline of events
Mississippi law lets you file these claims within three years from when the interference started. Fair competition isn’t interference – your competitor can offer better deals or services. The difference lies in whether they used dishonest or unfair methods.
Smart steps for protection
Take these actions to guard your business:
- Write clear contracts with non-interference terms
- Keep detailed records of all business deals
- Get signed confidentiality agreements
- Save all communications about business relationships
- Track any unusual patterns in lost business
When someone interferes with your business relationships, quick action matters. A business attorney can help assess your situation and protect your rights under Mississippi law. They’ll know how to gather evidence and build a strong case for your business.
