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Contract Disputes

Contract Disputes. We Protect Your Interests.

When agreements are broken, our experienced litigation attorneys fight to
enforce your rights and recover what you are owed.

Contracts form the backbone of business and personal transactions. When one party fails to uphold their end of the agreement, the consequences can be financially devastating. Whether you are dealing with a breach of a business contract, a vendor agreement, a construction contract or a real estate purchase agreement, you need an attorney who understands contract law and knows how to pursue effective remedies.

At Birkholz Law, our civil litigation attorneys have extensive experience handling contract disputes throughout Southern Minnesota. We represent individuals and businesses in disputes involving breach of contract, contract interpretation, non-compete agreements, partnership agreements and more. Our goal is to resolve your dispute as efficiently as possible while protecting your financial interests.

We understand that litigation is not always the best path forward. When possible, we pursue negotiation and mediation to resolve disputes quickly and cost-effectively. However, when the other side refuses to act in good faith, we are fully prepared to take your case to trial and fight aggressively for the outcome you deserve.

Types of Contract Disputes We Handle

Breach of contract claims arise when one party fails to perform their obligations under a valid agreement. This can include failure to deliver goods or services, failure to pay, failure to meet deadlines or failure to comply with specific terms. Minnesota law provides several remedies for breach of contract including monetary damages, specific performance and rescission of the contract.

Business contract disputes involve disagreements between business partners, vendors, suppliers, customers or service providers. These disputes often involve complex commercial relationships and significant financial stakes. Our attorneys have experience navigating the nuances of commercial contract law and pursuing effective strategies for resolution.

Construction contract disputes frequently arise over issues such as defective workmanship, project delays, change orders, payment disputes and scope of work disagreements. We represent property owners, contractors and subcontractors in disputes involving residential and commercial construction projects throughout Southern Minnesota.

Non-compete and restrictive covenant disputes involve agreements that limit an employee’s ability to work for competitors or start competing businesses after leaving employment. Minnesota law has specific requirements for enforceability of these agreements, and our attorneys understand how to challenge or enforce them effectively.

The Litigation Process

Our approach to contract disputes begins with a thorough review of the contract at issue, the relevant facts and the available evidence. We analyze the strengths and weaknesses of your position and develop a strategic plan designed to achieve the best possible outcome.

Many contract disputes can be resolved through negotiation or mediation without the need for a full trial. We pursue these options when they serve our client’s interests, saving time and legal costs while still achieving favorable results. When settlement is not possible, we are fully prepared to take your case through trial.

Minnesota’s statute of limitations for breach of contract claims is six years from the date of the breach. It is important to consult with an attorney promptly to preserve your rights and ensure all deadlines are met.

Frequently Asked Questions About Contract Disputes

A breach occurs when one party fails to perform any term of the contract without a legitimate legal excuse. This can be a material breach (a significant failure that defeats the purpose of the contract) or a minor breach (a less significant failure that does not defeat the contract’s purpose).

Minnesota law allows recovery of compensatory damages (the actual financial loss caused by the breach), consequential damages (foreseeable losses resulting from the breach) and in some cases attorney’s fees if the contract includes a fee-shifting provision.

Yes. Many contract disputes are resolved through negotiation, mediation or arbitration. These alternative dispute resolution methods can be faster and less expensive than traditional litigation. Our attorneys are skilled negotiators who pursue efficient resolution whenever possible.

The timeline varies depending on the complexity of the dispute, the amount at stake and whether the case settles or goes to trial. Simple disputes may resolve in a few months, while complex commercial litigation can take a year or more.

Why Choose Birkholz for Contract Disputes

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Dealing With a Contract Dispute?

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experienced civil litigation attorney. We will review your situation and
explain your options.