The term "intentional interference with contract" refers to a legal claim made when one party intentionally disrupts another party's contractual relationship. This disruption can lead to damages for the affected party. The claim is rooted in the idea that contracts should be honored and that third parties should not interfere with the fulfillment of those agreements.
This term is primarily used in civil law, particularly in tort law. It applies when a person or entity intentionally acts to interfere with a contractual agreement between two other parties. Legal practitioners may encounter this term in cases involving business contracts, employment agreements, or personal contracts. Users can often manage related legal processes using templates available from US Legal Forms, which are drafted by experienced attorneys.
Here are a couple of examples of abatement:
Example 1: A company learns that a competitor is trying to lure away its employees by offering them better contracts. If the competitor knowingly interferes with the existing contracts of these employees, the company may have grounds for a claim of intentional interference with contract.
Example 2: A landlord has a lease agreement with a tenant. If a third party persuades the tenant to break the lease, knowing that the tenant is bound by it, the landlord may pursue legal action against that third party for interference. (hypothetical example)
| State | Key Differences |
|---|---|
| California | Requires proof of intentional acts and knowledge of the contract. |
| New York | Focuses on the defendant's intent and the nature of the interference. |
| Texas | May allow claims for both existing and prospective contracts. |
This is not a complete list. State laws vary, and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| Intentional Interference with Contract | Disruption of an existing contract by a third party with knowledge and intent. |
| Intentional Interference with Prospective Economic Advantage | Interference with a potential business relationship without needing to prove intent to disrupt. |
If you believe that your contractual relationship has been intentionally disrupted, consider the following steps:
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It is a legal claim made when one party intentionally disrupts another party's contractual relationship, leading to damages.