Garden City Contract Dispute Attorney

Has There Been a Breach of Contract?

When a business agreement is broken, the financial and reputational impact can be devastating. Contracts are the foundation of most professional relationships—whether between partners, suppliers, or clients. When one party fails to uphold their end of the deal, it can lead to lost revenue, delays, and even litigation.

At Horn Wright, LLP, our Garden City contract dispute lawyers help businesses and individuals in Garden City, NY, protect their interests and enforce their contractual rights. We handle everything from negotiation and mediation to aggressive courtroom representation when necessary.

Contact Horn Wright, LLP to schedule a confidential consultation about your contract case.

Overview of Business Contracts

A business contract is a legally binding agreement between two or more parties that outlines their obligations, rights, and remedies. These agreements are designed to ensure that all parties understand what’s expected, providing a clear framework for business operations and relationships.

Contracts can be written or oral, though written contracts are easier to prove and enforce in court. A valid business contract typically includes the following elements:

• Offer and Acceptance: One party proposes an agreement, and the other accepts its terms.
• Consideration: Each party exchanges something of value (money, goods, or services).
• Legal Capacity: All parties must be legally capable of entering into the contract.
• Lawful Purpose: The agreement must not involve illegal activities.

A well-drafted contract helps prevent misunderstandings and disputes. However, even the most carefully prepared contracts can be breached—intentionally or unintentionally—by one of the parties involved.

Common Types of Breaches

Not all breaches are the same. Understanding the type of breach helps determine the legal remedies available. Below are the most common forms of breach our Garden City clients face:

Material Breach

A material breach occurs when one party fails to perform an essential part of the contract, making it impossible for the other party to receive the intended benefit. For example, if a supplier fails to deliver goods that a business relies on for operations, the breach is considered material.

Minor (Partial) Breach

A minor breach happens when one party fulfills the contract’s main terms but fails to meet a smaller obligation. While it doesn’t render the contract void, it may still result in financial damages.

Anticipatory Breach

This occurs when one party indicates, through words or actions, that they do not intend to fulfill their contractual obligations before the performance is due. The non-breaching party can take legal action immediately, even before the actual breach happens.

Actual Breach

An actual breach occurs when the breaching party outright fails to perform their duties as promised—such as not paying for services rendered or delivering substandard goods.

Regardless of the type, a breach of contract can significantly disrupt your business operations and profitability. Our Garden City contract dispute attorneys can help you evaluate your options and determine the best path forward.

How to Resolve a Breached Contract

Resolving a breach of contract depends on the circumstances of the case, the type of contract, and the desired outcome. At Horn Wright, LLP, we approach each dispute strategically—aiming to protect your interests while minimizing financial and reputational harm.

1. Negotiation and Mediation

Many contract disputes can be resolved through negotiation or mediation without going to court. Our attorneys can communicate directly with the opposing party or their counsel to reach a fair settlement. Mediation allows both sides to discuss the issue in a neutral setting with a third-party mediator.

2. Arbitration

Some contracts require arbitration, a private and binding form of dispute resolution. In arbitration, an arbitrator reviews the evidence and makes a decision, which is typically final. Our lawyers are skilled in navigating arbitration proceedings to ensure your case is presented effectively.

3. Litigation

If informal resolution fails, litigation may be necessary. Our Garden City breach of contract lawyers are prepared to take your case to court to enforce your rights. Common remedies in breach of contract cases include:

• Compensatory Damages: Financial compensation for losses caused by the breach.
• Consequential Damages: Reimbursement for additional losses indirectly caused by the breach.
• Specific Performance: A court order requiring the breaching party to fulfill their obligations.
• Rescission: Termination of the contract, releasing both parties from further duties.

We carefully evaluate the facts of your case to determine which remedy will best serve your interests and your business objectives.

Breach of Contract FAQs

What should I do if someone breaches a contract with my business?

Gather documentation related to the contract and the breach—emails, invoices, receipts, and communications. Then, consult a Garden City contract dispute lawyer at Horn Wright, LLP to discuss your options before taking action.

Can I sue for breach of an oral contract?

Yes, but proving an oral contract is more difficult. You’ll need to provide strong evidence—such as communications, witness statements, or performance of contract terms—to support your claim.

How long do I have to file a breach of contract claim in New York?

In New York, the statute of limitations for most breach of contract claims is six years from the date of the breach. However, it’s important to act quickly, as delays can weaken your case.

Can a contract be breached if the other party simply delays performance?

Yes. If the delay violates the terms of the agreement or causes financial harm, it may be considered a breach—especially if timely performance was a key term of the contract.

What defenses exist for breach of contract claims?

Common defenses include:

• The contract was invalid or unenforceable.
• The other party misrepresented key facts.
• Performance was impossible due to unforeseeable events.
• The non-breaching party waived certain contract terms.

Our attorneys can evaluate the specifics of your case to determine whether these defenses apply.

Contact a Garden City Contract Dispute Lawyer Today

Contract disputes can put your business at risk, but you don’t have to face them alone. Whether you’re seeking to enforce a contract or defend against a breach claim, Horn Wright, LLP is here to help.

Our Garden City breach of contract lawyers have extensive experience handling complex business litigation and dispute resolution throughout Nassau County and beyond. We’ll protect your rights, safeguard your assets, and pursue the best possible outcome for your case.

Call (516) 714-5975 today to connect with a breach of contract lawyer in Garden City.