When Business Deals Go Wrong or Property Disputes Arise, We Fight for Your Interests.

Florida commercial litigation allows recovery of both economic and consequential damages, including lost profits, business interruption, and costs of cover. Economic damages typically include direct monetary losses from breach of contract, while consequential damages cover indirect losses that were foreseeable at contract formation. In cases involving breach of fiduciary duty or fraud, punitive damages may also be available. Business litigation settlements often include attorney fee provisions, particularly when contracts contain prevailing party clauses. The key is proving your damages with reasonable certainty through financial records, expert testimony, and market analysis.

The timeline for commercial litigation varies significantly based on case complexity, court schedules, and parties’ willingness to negotiate. Simple contract disputes may resolve through mediation within 3-6 months, while complex business litigation involving multiple parties and extensive discovery can take 1-3 years. Florida requires mediation in most civil cases before trial, which often accelerates resolution. Many business disputes settle during the discovery phase when parties better understand the strength of their cases and potential litigation costs. Early case evaluation and strategic settlement discussions can significantly reduce both timeframes and expenses.

Mediation involves a neutral third party who facilitates discussions to help parties reach a voluntary agreement, but the mediator cannot impose a binding decision. The process is confidential, relatively inexpensive, and allows parties to maintain control over the outcome. Arbitration, by contrast, involves a neutral arbitrator who hears evidence and renders a binding decision that must be followed. While arbitration is typically faster and less expensive than court litigation, parties give up their right to a jury trial and have limited appeal rights. Many commercial contracts include arbitration clauses that require this process for dispute resolution.

Yes, abandonment of a business partnership can provide grounds for litigation, particularly if the departing partner’s actions violated partnership agreements or caused financial harm to the business. Even without a written partnership agreement, partners owe fiduciary duties to act in the partnership’s best interests. If a partner leaves improperly taking business opportunities, clients, or assets, the remaining partners may pursue claims for breach of fiduciary duty, conversion, or tortious interference. Remedies can include monetary damages, injunctive relief requiring return of partnership property, or forced dissolution of the partnership with proper asset distribution.

First, review your contract carefully to understand all parties’ obligations and any dispute resolution procedures required before litigation. Many real estate contracts include mediation or arbitration clauses that must be followed. Document all communications and gather evidence supporting your position, including emails, photographs, inspection reports, and financial records. Consider whether the dispute can be resolved through direct negotiation or whether formal legal action is necessary. Florida real estate law provides various remedies including specific performance (forcing completion of the sale), monetary damages, or contract rescission. Given the complexity of real estate transactions and potential for substantial financial loss, immediate consultation with experienced real estate litigation counsel is crucial for protecting your interests.