Whether you’re starting a small business, expanding an established company, or navigating a complex transaction, legal guidance can make the difference between success and costly mistakes. Many business owners underestimate the importance of having an experienced attorney until a problem arises — such as a contract dispute, regulatory issue, or lawsuit. A skilled business lawyer doesn’t just react to problems; they help prevent them before they start. Here are some of the key reasons why you might need a Maryland business lawyer at various stages of your company’s growth.

Starting And Structuring Your Business

When forming a business, one of the first and most important decisions is choosing the right structure. A business lawyer can help you determine whether to operate as a sole proprietorship, partnership, limited liability company (LLC), or corporation. Each option carries different tax consequences, liability protections, and reporting requirements. Setting up the wrong structure can expose you to unnecessary taxes or personal liability if the business faces legal action.

An attorney can also draft and file the necessary formation documents with the state, prepare bylaws or operating agreements, and ensure that ownership interests are clearly defined. If you’re starting a business with partners or investors, a lawyer can create agreements that establish roles, profit distribution, and dispute resolution processes — reducing the risk of future conflicts.

Drafting And Reviewing Contracts

Contracts are at the heart of nearly every business relationship, from leases and employment agreements to vendor and client contracts. A business lawyer can draft clear, enforceable contracts that protect your interests and reduce the likelihood of misunderstandings. They can also review contracts presented to you by other parties to ensure you understand every clause before signing.

Without legal oversight, vague or poorly written agreements can lead to disputes or litigation. For example, a missing term about payment deadlines, performance standards, or termination rights could cost your business thousands of dollars. A lawyer ensures your contracts are legally sound, tailored to your needs, and compliant with state and federal laws.

Employment And Labor Law Compliance

If your business has employees, you must comply with numerous state and federal labor laws, including those governing wages, overtime, discrimination, and workplace safety. A business lawyer can help you develop employment policies, draft employee handbooks, and create legally compliant job descriptions and contracts.

Attorneys can also advise you on issues related to hiring, firing, and disciplinary actions to reduce the risk of wrongful termination or discrimination claims. In the event of a dispute, your lawyer can represent your business before agencies like the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or in court, helping you minimize potential damages and protect your company’s reputation.

Handling Business Disputes And Litigation

Even the most careful business owner can encounter disputes — with customers, employees, competitors, or partners. When disagreements escalate, having an experienced business lawyer on your side can make all the difference. They can negotiate settlements, represent you in mediation or arbitration, and, if necessary, defend your interests in court.

Common business disputes include breach of contract, intellectual property infringement, partnership disagreements, and shareholder issues. A knowledgeable lawyer can assess your position, gather evidence, and develop a strategy to protect your business’s financial and legal standing. Often, early legal intervention can resolve conflicts before they turn into full-scale lawsuits.

Protecting Intellectual Property And Business Assets

Your brand, inventions, and creative works are valuable business assets that deserve protection. A business lawyer can help you secure trademarks, copyrights, and patents, and ensure your intellectual property is not misused or stolen. They can also help draft confidentiality and non-compete agreements to safeguard proprietary information and prevent former employees or partners from exploiting your ideas or client lists.

Beyond intellectual property, attorneys can assist with risk management strategies, insurance coverage review, and succession planning — all aimed at protecting your business’s long-term stability.

Call Brown Kiely LLP Today

A business lawyer is more than a problem-solver — they are a trusted advisor who helps you make informed decisions, avoid costly pitfalls, and position your business for long-term success. Whether you’re just starting out or managing a well-established company, legal guidance ensures that every step you take is built on a solid foundation.

If you are a business owner facing a legal challenge or simply want to ensure your operations are fully compliant, contact Brown Kiely LLP to learn how we can help. Our firm has been helping businesses just like yours since 1998. We can help you protect your interests, streamline your operations, and give you peace of mind to focus on what matters most — running your business.

What To Know About Non Compete Agreements

Non compete agreements are often used by businesses to safeguard their interests and maintain a competitive edge. These agreements set boundaries on what an employee can do after leaving a company, usually restricting them from working for direct competitors or starting a similar business within a certain time frame and geographic area. While they can provide valuable protection for employers, they must be carefully drafted to hold up in court. Because the laws governing these agreements vary by state, it is important for both employers and employees to understand their rights. For those who need guidance on these matters, working with a Maryland business lawyer can make a significant difference.

How Non Compete Agreements Work

A non compete agreement typically outlines restrictions on future employment. This might include a prohibition on working for competitors, soliciting clients, or using proprietary information gained during employment. Courts often look at the scope of the agreement to decide whether it is reasonable. If the terms are too broad in terms of time, geography, or type of work restricted, a court may find the agreement unenforceable.

Balancing Business Protection With Employee Rights

Employers want to safeguard trade secrets and customer relationships, but employees also need the ability to find new opportunities. That balance is why courts closely examine these contracts. The enforceability often depends on whether the agreement is narrowly tailored to protect legitimate business interests without being overly restrictive on an individual’s career options.

Why Drafting Matters

A well-written non-compete agreement is less likely to be challenged in court. In our practice, we have seen that many disputes arise when an agreement is drafted quickly without considering the specific needs of the business or the applicable state laws. That is why we carefully examine the details of each case, whether we are preparing agreements for employers or evaluating contracts for employees.

How We Help Clients With These Agreements

At our firm, we frequently assist businesses in creating enforceable agreements that protect their core operations without overreaching. We also work with employees who need to know what restrictions they may face after leaving a position. Because non compete agreements can affect both business strategies and individual career choices, we take care to provide clear guidance. Additionally, we represent clients in litigation when a dispute arises, whether that involves defending an employer’s contract or challenging an agreement that unfairly limits a worker’s future.

Clear Guidance For Moving Forward

Non compete agreements can provide strong protection, but they only work when they are properly written and fairly applied. At our firm, we focus on tailoring agreements to meet the unique needs of each client, whether that means protecting sensitive business information or helping an employee move forward without unnecessary restrictions. We also bring substantial litigation experience, which allows us to handle disputes when agreements are challenged in court. If you have questions about a current or potential agreement, Brown Kiely LLP can provide the legal support you need. Contact us today to discuss your situation and learn how we can help.

Contracts are the foundation of most business relationships, serving as legally binding agreements that define expectations, responsibilities, and outcomes. However, when the language in a contract is unclear or open to interpretation, disagreements often arise. Contract ambiguities can lead to misunderstandings, financial losses, and even litigation, making precision in drafting and review essential for preventing costly disputes.

Why Ambiguity Develops In Business Contracts

Ambiguity in contracts occurs when terms, clauses, or provisions are not defined clearly enough to have one obvious meaning. This can happen for several reasons. Sometimes, parties rush through the drafting process or use vague wording to maintain flexibility. In other cases, templates or copied language from previous agreements are reused without adapting to the current deal’s circumstances.

Attorneys like those at Sahyers Firm LLC can attest that ambiguity often arises when contracts rely on general language such as “reasonable efforts” or “timely completion” without providing context or measurable standards. While such phrases may seem harmless, they can lead to different interpretations if one party feels expectations were not met.

How Ambiguities Create Disagreements

When two parties interpret a clause differently, both may believe they are acting in good faith while still violating the other’s expectations. For instance, a supplier agreement that specifies delivery “as soon as possible” leaves room for disagreement about what that means in practice. If a shipment arrives later than expected, the buyer may see it as a breach of contract, while the supplier insists they met their obligations.

The Financial And Operational Impact

Business disputes stemming from ambiguous contracts can be expensive and time-consuming. Litigation costs can quickly escalate, diverting resources from core operations. The uncertainty surrounding a disputed contract may also delay projects, harm business relationships, or impact a company’s reputation.

For small businesses in particular, these disruptions can be damaging. Even if the disagreement is eventually resolved, the process of getting there may involve significant stress, lost productivity, and legal expenses. Preventing ambiguity from the outset is far more cost-effective than trying to resolve it later.

Strategies To Reduce Ambiguity

The most effective way to avoid contract ambiguity is through careful drafting and thorough review. Every key term should be clearly defined, and each party’s responsibilities should be detailed with precision. Avoiding vague terms like “reasonable,” “timely,” or “adequate” can help eliminate confusion about what each side expects.

A business lawyer can review or draft contracts to identify potential issues before they become problems. They can also clarify clauses involving risk allocation, dispute resolution, and performance requirements to make sure the agreement aligns with each party’s intent.

Resolving Disputes When Ambiguity Exists

When a disagreement arises due to unclear contract language, open communication is often the first step toward resolution. Discussing interpretations and seeking mutual agreement can prevent escalation. If informal discussions fail, mediation or arbitration may provide an alternative to litigation.

Building Clarity And Trust

A well-drafted contract not only protects a business legally but also builds trust between parties. Clear agreements foster stronger relationships and reduce the risk of disputes that can strain partnerships. By prioritizing precision and transparency, businesses set a foundation for long-term success and stability.

Contract ambiguity may seem like a minor issue, but it often has major consequences. Taking the time to draft clear, detailed, and fair agreements is an investment in both legal protection and professional integrity.

Placing a loved one in a nursing home is a decision made with the expectation that they will be treated with proper care and respect. Unfortunately, there are times when that trust is broken, and abuse or neglect becomes a reality. Families may feel uncertain about what steps to take, but legal options are available to address these situations. With the right approach, families can protect their loved ones and hold responsible parties accountable. For those seeking local support, speaking with a Baltimore, MD nursing home lawyer can be an important first step.

Recognizing The Signs Of Abuse

The first step in addressing abuse is recognizing when something is wrong. Signs may include sudden weight loss, unexplained bruises, emotional withdrawal, poor hygiene, or repeated infections. These red flags often indicate that a resident is not receiving proper care. By staying attentive and documenting these issues, families can gather evidence that may later be used in a legal claim.

Taking Immediate Action

If we suspect abuse, acting quickly is important. Families can request meetings with nursing home staff, file complaints with the state’s regulatory agencies, and seek immediate medical treatment if necessary. Removing a loved one from a harmful environment may also be required in serious situations. Swift action can prevent further harm and begin the process of addressing accountability.

Building A Case For Legal Action

Documenting everything is critical when preparing to pursue legal remedies. Families should keep records of medical conditions, take photographs of injuries, and write down conversations with staff or administrators. Witness statements from other residents or visitors can also provide valuable support. This documentation helps attorneys develop a more solid case for the resident.

How Legal Support Can Help

Legal representation is often essential in these cases. At Brown Kiely LLP, the firm handles nursing home abuse claims with a focus on protecting residents and their families. Their team also assists clients with personal injury and elder abuse cases, offering tailored support to meet individual needs. They have experience taking claims to trial when settlements are not possible, giving families confidence that their concerns will be fully addressed.

Working Toward Resolution

Families have options for pursuing justice. In some cases, settlements may be reached with the facility, compensating victims for medical costs, pain, and suffering. In other situations, litigation may be necessary to bring lasting change and accountability. Regardless of the approach, the goal is to protect the dignity and safety of those in long-term care.

Standing Up For Your Loved One

Families should never feel without options when abuse or neglect takes place in a nursing home. By recognizing the signs, taking immediate steps, and seeking legal support, we can help our loved ones receive the care they deserve. If you are facing this situation, reaching out for guidance is a critical step. The attorneys at Brown Kiely LLP are available to review your case, answer your questions, and help you move forward. Contact us today to speak with a team that understands how to protect your family’s rights.

Managing a business involves staying on top of contracts, vendor agreements, employee matters, and day-to-day operational choices. When legal disputes arise, they can shift that attention away from daily work and toward damage control. Commercial litigation brings significant disruption, not just in time and money, but in how a business operates. At Brown Kiely LLP, we’ve represented business owners dealing with contract breaches, partner disputes, employment claims, and issues involving fraud or misrepresentation. These matters affect more than just the legal bottom line—they can change how a company functions on a daily basis. If you’re operating in this region, the stakes involved in Washington, DC commercial litigation are often high and carry lasting operational consequences.

Disruption To Daily Operations

One of the most immediate effects of commercial litigation is disruption to the company’s daily workflow. When owners or executives are required to spend time in depositions, respond to document requests, or assist in case strategy, it takes time away from their usual responsibilities. Staff may also be involved, especially when internal documents, employee emails, or business records are requested. Depending on the nature of the case, customer-facing roles may be impacted, particularly when a dispute involves a product, service, or public representation.

Impact On Business Reputation

Litigation, particularly when made public, can affect how vendors, clients, and partners view a company. Even when a dispute is baseless, the perception of internal conflict or allegations of misconduct can impact confidence in the brand. Businesses often need to manage communications carefully during this time to protect ongoing relationships. For companies operating under service contracts, this can sometimes result in premature terminations or lost renewals while litigation is pending.

Cost To Operations And Future Planning

Legal fees, court expenses, and related costs can add up quickly, particularly when a case extends over time. But even beyond the direct legal expenses, there’s often a financial toll from delayed product launches, slowed project development, or withdrawn investor interest. Some businesses may need to put growth plans on hold while resources are diverted to legal matters. Depending on the circumstances, a lawsuit can also lead to stricter internal policies or a complete reevaluation of contract terms with third parties.

Shifts In Internal Management Practices

Commercial disputes can also trigger internal reviews of management practices. For example, a lawsuit involving a breach of fiduciary duty may lead to changes in oversight procedures, meeting protocols, or financial reporting processes. Similarly, employment-related disputes may require updated training policies or HR documentation systems. These shifts can be time-consuming but often result in improved operations going forward.

Why Litigation Strategy Matters For Business Health

Choosing how to respond to commercial litigation is not just a legal issue—it’s a business decision. The direction a case takes can influence long-term business outcomes. Settling early might preserve a customer relationship, while litigating fully may be the right move to protect key assets or enforce a critical contract. Either way, the strategy has operational consequences. That’s why it’s important for businesses to work with legal counsel who understand their industry, workflow, and goals.

Protecting Business Continuity During Legal Disputes

Litigation often comes at a difficult time, but the way we handle it can influence the outcome. Proactive communication with stakeholders, careful documentation, and informed decision-making can help keep a business stable while legal issues are addressed. Attorneys like those at Brown Kiely LLP can attest to the importance of aligning legal strategy with daily operations. For those dealing with commercial litigation, it’s vital to work with a team that can help maintain business continuity while addressing the dispute head-on. Reach out today to learn how we can support your business during this process.

Companies depend on well-defined contracts, shared trust, and effective communication to keep their operations on track. When one of these elements breaks down, disputes can arise, threatening relationships and financial stability. Our team has worked with businesses of all sizes across industries, and we know how disagreements can quickly escalate if they’re not addressed. At our firm, we provide thorough contract reviews and aggressive representation when conflicts become unavoidable. By helping clients pursue or defend claims related to breach of contract, shareholder disagreements, and partnership disputes, we aim to keep businesses focused on growth. These issues are central to Washington, D.C. commercial litigation.

Poorly Drafted Or Ambiguous Contracts

One of the most common causes of disputes stems from vague or incomplete contracts. When terms aren’t clearly defined or leave room for interpretation, each party may come away with different expectations. Disagreements about obligations, deadlines, payment terms, or performance standards often follow. Clear, specific contracts that lay out each party’s responsibilities are the best way to avoid future litigation.

Breach Of Contract Allegations

When one side fails to meet its agreed-upon obligations, accusations of breach of contract can lead to lawsuits. Breaches can involve missed payments, failure to deliver products or services, or violating exclusivity agreements. Even small misunderstandings can become significant if not resolved promptly, so it’s important to document performance and address problems early.

Disputes Between Partners And Shareholders

Businesses owned by multiple partners or shareholders are particularly vulnerable to conflicts. Disagreements about the direction of the company, how profits should be distributed, or decisions about hiring and expansion can turn personal. These disputes can escalate quickly, affecting day-to-day operations and relationships. Having clear partnership or shareholder agreements—and revisiting them when changes occur—can reduce the chances of litigation.

Intellectual Property Issues

Intellectual property conflicts frequently center on claims of stealing or improperly using trade secrets, trademarks, copyrights, or patents. These issues can arise internally when former employees use proprietary information, or externally when competitors infringe on protected assets. Protecting your company’s intellectual property rights and respecting others’ rights is critical to avoiding expensive legal battles.

Employment-Related Claims

Employment issues like wrongful termination, discrimination, harassment, or unpaid wages can lead to disputes with serious financial and reputational consequences. Written policies that comply with federal and state laws, combined with fair treatment of employees, help reduce the likelihood of these conflicts turning into lawsuits. If a claim does arise, businesses should respond swiftly and seek legal advice to limit liability.

Vendor And Client Disagreements

Disputes with vendors or clients about pricing, quality of goods or services, delivery times, or compliance with specifications can escalate into legal conflicts. These disagreements often damage business relationships that took years to build. Open lines of communication, clear purchase orders, and written agreements are key to preventing misunderstandings.

Reducing Dispute Risks

Companies that prepare solid contracts and maintain open communication are more likely to prevent disputes from turning into lawsuits. However, even with the best preparation, conflicts can still happen. That’s why it’s important to work with a legal team that understands your industry and can develop strategies that match your business goals. Our friends at Brown Kiely LLP discuss how early intervention and practical solutions can help resolve disputes efficiently. If your company is facing a disagreement or wants to minimize the risk of litigation, reach out to us today to learn how we can support your business through every stage of a conflict.

Commercial litigation refers to legal disputes between businesses or entities regarding contracts, trade practices, partnerships, and other business-related issues. These cases can involve a variety of issues, such as breach of contract, intellectual property rights, partnership disputes, or corporate governance matters. Commercial litigation can be complex and requires a deep understanding of both legal principles and the intricacies of business operations. The outcome of such cases can have a significant impact on a company’s reputation, financial standing, and future operations. Below, we explore the key aspects of commercial litigation through a series of frequently asked questions. Contact an attorney specializing in Washington, DC commercial litigation law for more detailed information about your situation.

What Is Commercial Litigation?

Commercial litigation is the process of resolving disputes that arise between businesses or organizations. These disputes can involve a variety of issues, such as breach of contract, fraud, partnership disagreements, or intellectual property violations. Commercial litigation cases may involve large corporations, small businesses, or even individuals in their business dealings. Common commercial litigation matters include contract disputes, shareholder disputes, antitrust issues, and business torts.

Businesses often face legal challenges that disrupt operations, and litigation is one way to resolve these disputes. However, litigation can be time-consuming and costly, which is why many businesses attempt to resolve issues through negotiation or alternative dispute resolution methods, such as arbitration or mediation, before resorting to litigation.

How Does The Commercial Litigation Process Work?

The commercial litigation process typically involves several stages. Initially, a business or individual will file a complaint if they believe they have been wronged in some way. After the complaint is filed, the defendant will have an opportunity to respond to the claims. Discovery follows, where both parties exchange information relevant to the case. This stage may involve depositions, document requests, and interrogatories.

Once discovery is complete, the case may proceed to trial, where each party presents their arguments and evidence. However, many commercial litigation cases are settled out of court, either through a negotiated settlement or alternative dispute resolution mechanisms. If the case goes to trial, the court will issue a judgment. Depending on the complexity of the case, the process can take months or even years to resolve.

What Are Common Causes Of Commercial Litigation?

Commercial litigation can arise from many different sources. Some of the most common causes include:

• Breach of Contract: This is one of the most frequent causes of commercial litigation. A party may sue another for failing to fulfill the terms of a legally binding agreement, resulting in financial loss or other damages.
• Intellectual Property Disputes: These involve conflicts over patents, trademarks, copyrights, or trade secrets. Companies may litigate to protect their intellectual property from unauthorized use or infringement.
• Partnership Disputes: When businesses form partnerships, disagreements over business decisions, profit distribution, or business direction can lead to litigation.
• Fraud and Misrepresentation: Allegations of fraudulent business practices, such as misrepresentation of financial conditions, can lead to legal battles.
• Antitrust Violations: Companies that violate antitrust laws by engaging in anti-competitive practices may be subject to commercial litigation.

How Can A Business Protect Itself From Commercial Litigation?

There are several ways a business can protect itself from the risks of commercial litigation:

• Clear Contracts: Ensuring that contracts are clear and detailed helps prevent misunderstandings that can lead to disputes.
• Dispute Resolution Clauses: Including clauses in contracts that specify how disputes will be resolved, such as through mediation or arbitration, can avoid lengthy litigation.
• Legal Compliance: Staying up-to-date on relevant laws and regulations, especially those related to business practices, intellectual property, and labor law, is essential in preventing litigation.
• Risk Management Plans: A risk management plan can help identify potential legal risks early and mitigate them before they escalate.

Call Our Office For Legal Assistance

If your business is facing commercial litigation or you are concerned about protecting your business from potential legal disputes, it’s crucial to consult with a skilled commercial litigation attorney from Brown Kiely LLP. With the right legal guidance, you can navigate complex business disputes effectively, protect your interests, and achieve a favorable resolution. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can help your business address its legal challenges.

When a business faces a legal dispute, the effects often extend well beyond the courtroom. Public perception, client relationships, and overall brand trust can all shift quickly once litigation becomes public. Even when a company is confident in its legal position, the fact that it’s involved in a lawsuit can raise questions among clients, investors, and partners. At our firm, we’ve worked with clients facing disputes involving breach of contract, shareholder disagreements, and trade secret issues, helping them protect not just their legal rights, but their reputation as well. Legal action is sometimes unavoidable, but how a business responds to it can shape public and professional trust. For companies operating in the nation’s capital, reputation concerns often influence decisions about whether and how to proceed with Washington, DC commercial litigation.

Reputation And Public Perception During A Dispute

Litigation can quickly attract attention, especially when the business is well known in its field or community. News reports, online chatter, and industry gossip can all affect how people view the company, sometimes before all the facts are known. This is especially true in disputes involving employees, customers, or other businesses. We often advise clients to be proactive in how they manage communication, staying consistent in their public and internal messaging. Even in cases where no public statement is required, internal consistency is key. Employees, contractors, and long-term partners take notice of how a business handles conflict, and their perception can shape broader community views.

Internal Morale And External Confidence

Legal disputes can impact staff morale, particularly when they disrupt daily operations or create uncertainty about job stability. When employees start to worry about the future of the business, it can impact productivity and retention. On the other hand, a confident and well-managed legal response can provide reassurance. Externally, vendors and customers may also become hesitant. They may question the stability of ongoing agreements or consider other options if they believe the company is distracted or at risk. That’s why we often focus on helping businesses maintain regular operations and fulfill obligations during the litigation process.

Trust, Credibility, And Long-Term Impact

Reputation isn’t just about short-term opinions, it can shape long-term growth. Future business deals often rely on trust, and that trust is built through a company’s track record. A business that handles a legal dispute with professionalism and transparency may earn greater credibility, even in the face of conflict. In contrast, one that mishandles the situation, delays communication, or overreacts to the legal threat may face lasting damage. We’ve seen how a well-planned legal approach combined with clear communication can help businesses maintain their reputation throughout a dispute.

Why Reputation Strategy Matters As Much As Legal Strategy

A commercial dispute isn’t just a legal issue, it’s a moment that can reshape how people view your business. That’s why we work closely with clients to address both legal and public-facing concerns. Our friends at Brown Kiely LLP discuss the value of aligning litigation goals with business values, particularly when reputation is on the line. If your company is considering or responding to a legal dispute, we encourage you to speak with a team that understands how to protect both your legal interests and your public standing.

Litigation is an incredibly wide field in law, focused on resolving conflicts between two parties.  Although a civil lawsuit is an adversarial process similar to a criminal investigation and trial, it is used when criminal violations are not involved. The litigation law firm in Washington, DC of Brown Kiely Law LLP has a 20-year track record of success in personal injury and individual as well as commercial litigation.

All individuals have the right to file a complaint and argue their case in court on their own. However, it is not a wise course of action , even if that person has legal training and credentials. Experienced litigators not only have the expertise and training to navigate through the filings and conduct any investigation that may be necessary, but they also bring an objective, outside perspective to what may be emotional issues. Although some cases are emotionally-charged (especially those involving personal injury), the court cares only for facts and figures. While a jury may be swayed by emotional factors, in the end, jurors decide a case based on what is known as a “preponderance of evidence.”

You may recall that in criminal cases, the standard is “reasonable doubt,” which is a very high standard.  Because of abuses in English criminal courts of the 18th Century, the Framers and Founders of the Constitution deliberately made the rules to favor the accused. Although innocent people are convicted from time to time, the majority of criminals are convicted on virtually irrefutable evidence.

Preponderance of evidence is a lower standard. Simply put, it means that based on the evidence presented, the court decides that the facts of the case are more likely to be true than not. In contrast, a criminal trial is decided when the prosecutor successfully demonstrates that based on the evidence, a clear-thinking and rational person accepts the suspect’s guilt with near-certainty. In addition, the verdict in a criminal trial must be unanimous; in a civil trial, a majority is sufficient. This is why O.J. Simpson was cleared of his ex-wife’s murder during the famous criminal trial but was held liable for wrongful death when her family brought a lawsuit against him.

The Best Outcome

Our litigation law firm in Washington, DC strives to avoid going to court whenever possible; indeed, most civil cases never make it to trial. Instead, the two parties reach an out-of-court settlement. This can require a great deal of negotiation and several meetings, but your attorney will do his best to make sure these are kept to a minimum. One alternative to litigation is arbitration or mediation, which involves a neutral third party. You may consider going this route if your attorney believes it is the best way to resolve your case.

Depending on the strength of your case and your financial situation, Brown Kiely Law LLP can represent you on a contingency basis. This means you pay nothing upfront; instead, your litigation law firm in Washington, DC takes a percentage of any recovery.

What Do Litigation Lawyers Do? 

Most people when they think of a litigation lawyer think of the ones in the courtroom dramas. The only thing that the dramas got right is that they are there to help you file a legal claim or defend against a legal claim. They are the ones in the courtroom who are either prosecuting or defending their client. Their job is to help guide you through filing a case or defending against one.

These lawyers help explain the process and also help you identify and inform you of any potential pitfalls or defenses the other side may use. They also won’t let you hire them if you don’t have a need for them. These lawyers don’t want to waste your time or theirs over a case that won’t get far or has no real grounds for a case.

Why Should You Hire a Litigation Lawyer? 

There are many reasons that someone would turn to hire a litigation lawyer. One of the top reasons is peace of mind. Going through a court case is stressful and it can get complicated rather quickly. Knowing that someone who has the years studying law and then years practicing can give you peace of mind. Defending yourself can get messy, and you are more likely to lose your case if you do.

Another reason is the experience. Lawyers went to school and then spend a lot of time in courtrooms They know how to speak to judges, and how to keep calm during the case. They also know how to file court documents and deal with other producers that happen. The only thing you have to worry about is being there and giving them the information they need. Navigating a lawsuit is difficult alone, and having a lawyer there can truly save you time and money.

How do You Know You Have the Right Lawyer? 

Going through the process of finding the right lawyer for you can be difficult. However, there are ways you can know that you have the right lawyer for you. The first thing that you should be doing is interviewing lawyers. Don’t settle on the first one you meet as you may not have the one that will work best with you.

Find someone that is easy to understand, takes the time to explain things in a way you understand, is responsive, and has the experience to take on your case. Don’t settle for less as that can cost you your case.

If you are in need of a litigation lawyer don’t hesitate to reach out to Brown Kiely LLP for an experienced litigation law firm in Washington, D.C. If you are unsure about what we can do to help reach out and we will talk to you about your options and how we can help you get what you deserve.

If you want to protect your business, consult with a Maryland Breach of Contract lawyer. One step businesses may take is to have employees sign a non-compete agreement. The agreement prohibits the worker from working for a competitor for some period of time. When such an agreement is breached, you may look for advice from the best breach of contract lawyer Maryland. The team at Brown Kiely LLP is experienced in such circumstances and here we offer some guidance on what to do next.

What Is a Non-Compete Agreement

The non-compete agreement is an agreement between the employee and employer. The agreement states that one party will not compete against the other within the same industry. Now, most states require these agreements to be reasonable. Additionally, the business needs to have information to protect, like trade secrets or client lists.

When the Non-Compete Agreement Kicks In

Normally, the employee has to leave the company for the non-compete agreement to go into effect. Now, in some cases, an employer might remind the employee of their obligation and agreement. If you conduct an exit interview, you can take the time to remind your former employee of what he or she agreed to. You may also remind them that you may take action in the event the agreement is violated. If he or she winds up violating the agreement, there are steps you can take, starting with a consultation from the best breach of contract lawyer Maryland.

Speak to the New Employer

If you learn that your former employee is working for a competitor, you can always reach out the business to explain the contractual obligations. This alerts the employer that the employee is violating your agreement. If you do this promptly, he or she may not hire the employee and you may not have to worry about the violation.

Cease and Desist

If contacting the employer doesn’t work, then you can send a cease and desist. This will state that the employee has violated the agreement. In addition, it will order the employee to stop work. Usually, you would hire the best breach of contract lawyer Maryland to craft this letter to ensure it’s done professionally and legally. If that doesn’t work, then you may have to go to arbitration or mediation. These processes will help stop the violation.

Litigation Process

If none of that works, then you may have to file a lawsuit. Before you file a lawsuit, you should contact the best breach of contract lawyer Maryland and make sure that you have a deep understanding of the law. Your lawyer will be able to look over the agreement to make sure that it’s enforceable.

If you have an employee that breaches a non-compete agreement, there are steps that you can take against the employee. It’s important to first discuss it with the best breach of contract lawyer Maryland to ensure you’re doing the right thing with litigation. For more information on non-compete agreements, contact Brown Kiely LLP today.