Vernon & Salmon Arm Commercial Litigation Lawyers

In today’s competitive business landscape, legal disputes can arise unexpectedly, potentially impacting your company’s operations, reputation, and bottom line. At CM Lawyers, our experienced team of business and commercial litigation lawyers provides practical and strategic legal representation to businesses of all sizes. We understand businesses’ unique challenges and are committed to protecting your interests.

Business & Commercial Disputes in B.C.

Commercial litigation arises from several different types of disputes. Some common forms of business disputes are set out below.

Contract Disputes

Contracts lie at the heart of every business transaction and day-to-day commercial operations. As a result, the vast majority of commercial litigation matters involve some form of contract dispute, involving issues such as:

• Breach of contract: When one party fails to fulfill its obligations under a contract (e.g. a loan default, or breach of warranties or post-closing obligations in a real estate deal).
• Contract interpretation: Disagreements over the meaning and intent of contract terms.
• Contract formation: Disputes arising from the formation of a contract, such as issues with offer, acceptance, and consideration.
• Contract termination: Disputes involving a party’s desire to terminate a contract early, sometimes based on breach or frustration of contract or a termination clause.
• Contract variation: Disagreements over the variation of contract terms after the contract has been executed, such as when unforeseen circumstances arise during the contract term.
• Fraudulent misrepresentation: Occurs when false statements are made to induce someone to enter into a contract.
• Deceptive business practices: Unfair or deceptive business practices that harm consumers or competitors can be critical issues at the centre of a business dispute.

Shareholder Disputes

Shareholder disputes can arise from various issues, including disagreements over management decisions, financial matters, or ownership rights. These disputes can be complex, costly, and often require legal intervention. Common sources of shareholder conflict include:

• Shareholder agreements: Disputes over the interpretation and enforcement of shareholder agreements.
• Director’s duties: Disputes involving breaches of directors’ fiduciary duties.
• Shareholder oppression: Claims by minority shareholders that they are being unfairly treated.

Partnership Disputes

Friction between business partners can be grounded in differing managerial styles and financial management. Many partnership disputes in B.C. involve the following concerns:

• Partnership agreements: Including the interpretation and enforcement of these contracts.
• Dissolution of partnership: The end of a business partnership is usually governed by the partnership agreement and is subject to B.C.’s partnership laws.
• Profit sharing and distribution: The division of profits and losses can be the basis for contentious disputes between business partners.

Commercial Lease Disputes

Commercial leases are at the heart of many businesses, such as when they involve a brick-and-mortar store or franchise location. Some examples of disagreements arising from commercial leases include:

• Lease interpretation: Disputes over the meaning and intent of lease terms.
• Rent disputes: Disagreements over rent amounts, late fees, and security deposits.
• Renewals and termination: Including evictions, early cancellation of a lease, or sale of a property.
• Landlord and tenant responsibilities: These include maintenance obligations, property damage, and insurance claims.

The Indispensable Role of an Experienced Business Litigation Lawyer

Navigating the complex business law landscape in British Columbia can be daunting, especially when faced with litigation. An experienced business litigation lawyer can provide invaluable guidance and representation, helping to protect your business interests and achieve favourable outcomes.

The business lawyers at CM Lawyers have a comprehensive of B.C.’s commercial law framework, empowering them to develop sound, pragmatic legal strategies for clients embroiled in a business dispute. Our team are effective negotiators and, whenever possible, find cost-effective and timely resolutions that aim to preserve relationships and minimize disruptions to business operations. When litigation is the best way to proceed, we are a compelling presence in the courtroom, providing our clients with the peace of mind that they have a skilled advocate by their side.

CM Lawyers Provides Skilled Representation in Commercial Litigation Matters in Vernon & Salmon Arm

Whether you’re a budding entrepreneur or a seasoned executive, CM Lawyers offers comprehensive business and commercial litigation solutions to address your business’s unique challenges. Our team of skilled business litigation lawyers provides practical, strategic, and sound legal advice across a wide range of disputes.

CM Lawyers is committed to building strong client relationships through responsive communication and personalized service. We have convenient office locations in Vernon and Salmon Arm and service the surrounding communities, including Northern Okanagan and Shuswap. To discuss your commercial litigation matter with our team, please call us in Vernon at (250) 308-0338 or Salmon Arm at (250) 803-9171, or contact us online.