The tort of intentional interference with prospective economic advantage occurs when one party intentionally disrupts another party's potential economic relationships with third parties. This legal concept is designed to protect the trust and confidence inherent in these relationships, ensuring that individuals can pursue economic opportunities without unwarranted interference.
This tort is primarily used in civil law cases where a party claims that their economic relationships have been harmed due to another party's wrongful actions. It often arises in business contexts, such as when a competitor intentionally sabotages a business relationship. Users can manage related legal matters using templates from US Legal Forms, which are designed by qualified attorneys.
Here are a couple of examples of abatement:
Example 1: A company learns that a competitor is trying to convince its clients to switch their business. If the competitor uses deceitful tactics to persuade these clients, the original company may have grounds for a claim of intentional interference.
Example 2: A real estate agent intentionally spreads false information about another agent to dissuade potential buyers from working with them, causing economic harm to that agent. (hypothetical example)
| State | Key Differences |
|---|---|
| California | California recognizes this tort and has specific case law that outlines its elements, as seen in Buckaloo v. Johnson. |
| New York | New York also recognizes this tort but may apply different standards regarding what constitutes intentional interference. |
| Texas | Texas law has similar principles but may have additional requirements for proving damages. |
This is not a complete list. State laws vary, and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.
| Term | Definition | Key Differences |
|---|---|---|
| Tortious interference with contract | Interference with an existing contract between two parties. | This tort applies to established contracts, while intentional interference with prospective economic advantage deals with potential future relationships. |
| Defamation | False statements that harm a person's reputation. | Defamation focuses on reputation, whereas intentional interference focuses on economic relationships. |
If you believe you are a victim of intentional interference with prospective economic advantage, consider the following steps:
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It is a legal claim that arises when one party intentionally disrupts another's potential economic relationships.