Maryland Business Contract Lawyer
Contracts affect nearly every part of a business operation. From agreements with customers and vendors to employment contracts, leases, and business partnerships, a poorly written or unclear contract can create problems long after the agreement is signed. Joseph, Greenwald & Laake helps businesses draft, review, negotiate, and enforce contracts so business owners can protect their interests.
Our Business Contract Services
Joseph, Greenwald & Laake provides contract law services to businesses throughout Maryland. Our attorneys assist with both the drafting and review of business agreements, helping clients understand what they are agreeing to before they sign and identifying terms that could create problems later.
We also represent businesses when contract disputes arise. Whether another party has failed to perform its obligations, disputes the terms of an agreement, or claims that the business breached the contract, our attorneys can assess the situation and discuss available options. Depending on the circumstances, we may pursue negotiation, alternate dispute resolution, or litigation to resolve the dispute.
What Types of Business Agreements Can We Assist With?
Businesses rely on a wide variety of contracts. Our attorneys can assist with agreements involving:
- Business purchase and sale transactions
- Commercial leases and real estate agreements
- Construction and contractor agreements
- Employment and independent contractor agreements
- Franchise agreements
- Licensing agreements
- Partnership and operating agreements
- Service agreements
- Vendor and supplier contracts
- Confidentiality and nondisclosure agreements
- Noncompete and nonsolicitation agreements
- Settlement agreements
- Sales and purchase agreements
- Other agreements related to business operations
When a contract involves real estate, our attorneys can also assist with the legal issues surrounding the transaction. Learn more about our real estate services.
Key Terms a Maryland Business Contract Lawyer Can Help You Address
A contract may look straightforward, but individual provisions can significantly affect a business’s rights and obligations. Before signing an agreement, businesses should consider the terms that govern what each party must do, what happens when something goes wrong, and how the parties can end the relationship.
Scope of Services or Obligations
The contract should clearly explain what each party must provide, when performance must occur, and what the other party can expect. Vague obligations can lead to disagreements about whether someone performed as promised.
Payment Terms
Payment provisions should address the amount owed, when payment is due, accepted payment methods, late fees, and any conditions tied to payment.
Term and Renewal
Businesses should know when an agreement begins and ends and whether it automatically renews. Renewal provisions can create continuing obligations if a business does not provide notice within a specific timeframe.
Termination
A contract should explain when and how either party can end the agreement. Some contracts allow termination for convenience, while others require a specific reason or notice period.
Confidentiality
Confidentiality provisions can restrict how a party uses or discloses sensitive business information. The contract should identify what information receives protection and how long the obligation lasts.
Indemnification
An indemnification provision may require one party to cover certain losses, claims, or expenses suffered by the other party. Businesses should understand exactly when this obligation applies and how broad it is.
Limitation of Liability
These provisions attempt to limit the damages or losses a party can recover if something goes wrong. The language can have a significant effect on the financial risk a business takes on under the agreement.
Dispute Resolution
Contracts may specify how the parties must resolve disputes. Depending on the agreement, this may include negotiation, mediation, arbitration, or litigation. The contract may also identify which court will hear a dispute and which state’s law applies.
Representations and Warranties
These provisions contain statements about facts, circumstances, or promises made by the parties. If a representation turns out to be inaccurate, it may lead to a claim for breach of contract or other legal remedies.
Insurance Requirements
Certain agreements require one or both parties to maintain specific types or amounts of insurance. Businesses should understand what coverage the contract requires and whether their existing policies satisfy those requirements.
When Should You Have a Business Contract Reviewed?
Businesses do not need to wait for a dispute before involving a contract lawyer. Having an attorney review an agreement before signing can help identify terms, unclear obligations, and potential sources of conflict. Consider legal review when:
Before Signing a Major Agreement
- You are entering a long-term contract
- The agreement involves a significant financial commitment
- The contract creates substantial obligations for your business
- You are unsure about a provision or its potential consequences
When Starting or Expanding a Business Relationship
- You are entering into a partnership or joint venture
- You are working with a new vendor or supplier
- You are hiring an independent contractor
- You are entering into a licensing or service agreement
- You are purchasing or selling a business
When Negotiating Contract Terms
- The other party has provided its own contract
- You want to change terms before signing
- You are concerned about liability or indemnification
- The agreement contains restrictive covenants
- The contract gives the other party broad termination rights
When a Problem Develops
- The other party fails to perform
- You believe the other party breached the agreement
- The other party claims your business breached the contract
- You receive a notice of default or termination
- A disagreement develops over the meaning of a contract provision
What Happens If a Contract Is Breached?
A breach of contract occurs when a party fails to fulfil the obligation required by a valid agreement. A breach may involve failing to make a required payment, failing to provide agreed-upon goods or services, missing a contractual deadline, or otherwise failing to comply with the agreement’s terms. The specific language of the contract and the circumstances surrounding the failure will determine whether a breach occurred and what rights the other party may have.
The consequences of a breach of contract depend on the agreement and the harm caused by the breach. A business may seek damages or other available remedies, while some contracts require the parties to negotiate, mediate, or arbitrate before filing a lawsuit. In other situations, litigation may become necessary. An attorney can review the agreement, evaluate the facts, and help determine an appropriate approach to resolving the dispute efficiently.
What Industries and Clients Our Business Contract Lawyers Serve
We represents a wide range of businesses and business owners, from small businesses and entrepreneurs to established companies and organizations. Our attorneys work with clients across different industries and assist with contracts that arise throughout the life of a business, whether the client needs help with a single agreement, an ongoing business relationship, or a contract dispute.
Why Maryland Businesses Trust Joseph, Greenwald & Laake
At JGL, we take a practical approach to business contract matters. Our attorneys look beyond the language on the page to understand how an agreement will affect the client’s actual business operation, financial interests, and goals. We can help clients address concerns before they sign, negotiate terms when changes are needed, and pursue solutions when contract disputes arise. Whether you need a contract lawyer for a single agreement or ongoing legal counsel for your business, JGL can provide guidance tailored to the circumstances.
Consult an Experienced Maryland Business Contract Lawyer
A contract can create significant obligations for your business, and resolving a dispute after the fact can be more difficult than addressing problems before an agreement is signed. Whether you need assistance with drafting and review, contract negotiations, or a dispute involving a breach of contract, an experienced business law attorney can help you protect your interests.
Joseph, Greenwald & Laake represents Maryland businesses in a wide range of contract and business law matters. If you have a contract that needs review or are dealing with a contract dispute, contact JGL to discuss your situation and schedule a consultation.
