Business tort

Business tort claims typically involve business disputes that are not based on a contract. They can arise in any commercial contexts or industries and involve wrongdoing in the business relationship. Examples include one party interfering with another’s business, a company engaging in unethical or illegal business practices, spreading false statements about a competitor, misappropriating confidential information or trade secrets, and using an individual’s name or image for commercial use without authorization.

Nelson & Fraenkel’s business tort litigation attorneys have significant experience in prosecuting business tort claims. Such litigation typically includes claims for fraud and negligent misrepresentation, defamation, misappropriation of trade secrets, breach of fiduciary duty, unfair competition, tortious interference with economic advantage, or conversion. Additionally, there are similar claims that exist by statute, such as California’s Unfair Competition Law, False Advertising Law, and Right of Publicity Law.

Business tort claims may be asserted either by the plaintiff or by the defendant as a counterclaim or cross-claim. Certain statutes allow attorneys’ fees and punitive damages to be paid to the prevailing party, which can provide additional leverage to the party making the claim.

Determining the viability of a business tort claim requires careful investigation, analysis of the facts, an understanding of the underlying business, and in some cases, expert analysis. We have a successful track record of developing case strategies and achieving favorable results for our clients.