Practice
Settle: business disputes
Most business disputes cost more than they're worth if they go the whole way. We settle them early when the terms are fair, and try them when they aren't.
What we handle
- Unpaid invoices and collections
- Broken contracts with customers, suppliers and landlords
- Disputes between owners, including deadlock and buyouts
- Non-compete and non-solicitation claims
- Mediation, arbitration and trial in state and federal court
How it starts
We read the contract and the emails, and tell you plainly what the dispute is worth and what it would cost to pursue. Then, usually, a demand letter. Many disputes end there.
If it goes to court
The partner who wrote the letter tries the case. We budget each stage in writing, so the decision to keep going is always yours and always informed.
Sample matters
Ended before trial
A deadlock has an exit.
Resolved at mediation
Two equal owners of a restaurant group, separated by a buyout at an agreed valuation, without a trial.
A lien is a strong letter.
Paid in full
An electrical subcontractor owed $28,500 on a commercial job, paid within a month of a demand letter and a mechanic's lien notice.
Sample matters, written as illustrations for this template. Every matter is different, and past results don't guarantee a similar outcome.
Questions owners ask
Is it worth suing over an unpaid invoice?
Sometimes. We'll tell you what collecting would cost against what you're owed, and whether the contract lets you recover fees.
Can you represent us if we're the ones being sued?
Yes. Send us the papers the day you receive them; the deadline to respond is short.
Do you handle disputes between partners?
Yes, for the company or for one owner, but not both. If we wrote your operating agreement, we may not be able to take sides.