Miami, FL 
305-928-1077 
Florida Business Law & Commercial Litigation Attorneys
Strategic Counsel. Relentless Advocacy.
At Perez Mayoral, P.A., we represent business owners, investors, and partners in high-stakes commercial disputes. When problems arise, whether it’s a breach of contract, partnership conflict, or corporate misconduct, we act quickly and strategically to safeguard your interests and pursue lasting, business-minded solutions.
Commercial Dispute Resolution
Business Litigation Services
Millions Won for Florida Businesses
Contract Disputes
Handling breaches, interpretation issues, and enforcement of contract clauses to protect clients’ rights and obligations.
Shareholder and Partnership Disputes
Representing stakeholders in disputes over management, profit distribution, and breaches of fiduciary duties.
Business Torts
Addressing issues like tortious interference, unfair competition, defamation, fraud, and more to protect clients and recover damages.
Commercial Real Estate Litigation
Managing disputes involving lease issues, zoning, property rights, and eminent domain.
Employment Disputes
Representing businesses in cases of wrongful termination, discrimination, wage disputes, and breaches of noncompete or confidentiality agreements.
Corporate Governance and Fiduciary Duty Litigation
Focusing on disputes related to governance, breaches of fiduciary duties, mismanagement, and corporate integrity.
Construction Litigation
Dealing with breaches, construction defects, mechanic’s liens, and payment or performance disputes.
Intellectual Property Litigation
Assisting in the defense and enforcement of trademarks, copyrights, patents, and trade secrets.
Video Resources
FOR FLORIDA BUSINESSES
Strategic Counsel. Relentless Advocacy.
Protecting the interests of Florida businesses, investors, and shareholders through sophisticated representation in state and federal courts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Your Questions Answered
How do I know if my business has grounds for a lawsuit?
Your business may have grounds for a lawsuit if you’ve experienced financial harm due to another party’s actions or failure to meet their obligations. Common indicators include breach of contract where the other party failed to deliver goods, services, or payments as agreed, fraudulent business practices that caused monetary losses, interference with your business relationships or existing contracts, trademark or copyright infringement affecting your brand, partnership disputes involving mismanagement of funds or breach of fiduciary duties, or employment issues such as trade secret theft by former employees. Additionally, if you’ve suffered damages from construction defects, real estate disputes, or unfair competition practices, you likely have viable legal claims.
The key factors Florida courts consider are whether you can demonstrate actual damages, establish the other party’s legal responsibility, and show a clear connection between their actions and your losses. To determine if your specific situation warrants legal action, gather all relevant documentation including contracts, correspondence, financial records, and evidence of damages. Contact our experienced business litigation attorneys for a consultation where we can evaluate the strength of your potential claims and discuss the most effective legal strategy for your case.
How long does litigation typically take?
Business litigation timelines in Florida vary widely based on the case’s complexity, court schedules, and whether parties reach settlement agreements. Simple contract disputes or straightforward business matters may resolve within 6-12 months, while complex commercial litigation involving multiple parties, extensive discovery, or involved legal issues can take 2-3 years or longer to reach trial. The discovery phase, where parties exchange documents and take depositions, typically accounts for the majority of litigation time and can last 6-18 months depending on the volume of information involved.
Factors that can extend timelines include crowded court dockets, motions practice, appeals, and the opposing party’s cooperation level. Many cases settle during mediation or negotiations before reaching trial, which can significantly shorten the overall process. Federal court cases often move faster than state court matters due to different scheduling practices and case management approaches. Emergency situations may qualify for expedited hearings or temporary injunctions that can provide quicker relief while the main case proceeds. For a realistic timeline estimate based on your specific business dispute, contact our office for a consultation where we can evaluate your case’s unique circumstances and provide a more precise timeframe for resolution.
Can my business recover attorney fees in litigation?
Whether your business can recover attorney fees in litigation depends on the specific circumstances of your case and applicable Florida law. Florida generally follows the “American Rule,” meaning each party pays their own attorney fees unless there’s a specific statute, contract provision, or legal principle that allows fee recovery. Common situations where businesses can recover attorney fees include contracts with prevailing party clauses, cases involving statutory violations like unfair trade practices or certain employment disputes, trademark and copyright infringement claims, and situations where the opposing party acted in bad faith or filed frivolous claims.
Additionally, Florida’s offer of judgment statute allows fee recovery in some cases where a party rejects a reasonable settlement offer and then receives a less favorable judgment at trial. The amount recoverable must be reasonable and necessary, and courts will review fee requests to ensure they’re appropriate for the work performed. To understand your potential for fee recovery in your specific case, contact our team for a consultation where we can review your contracts, assess applicable statutes, and develop a strategy that maximizes your chances of recovering attorney fees along with other damages.
What are the costs associated with business litigation?
Business litigation costs in Florida include several components beyond attorney fees, such as court filing fees ranging from $400-$500 to initiate a lawsuit, deposition costs of $500-$1,500 per witness, expert witness fees that can reach $200-$500 per hour, and expenses for document production, investigations, or forensic analysis when needed. Additional costs may include mediation fees, court reporter charges, and potential bond requirements for certain types of relief. The total expense depends heavily on factors like case duration, the amount of discovery required, number of parties involved, and whether the matter settles early or proceeds to trial.
Simple contract disputes might resolve for under $30,000, while complex commercial matters can cost significantly more depending on their scope and duration. Many cases settle during negotiations or mediation, which typically reduces overall expenses compared to full trial proceedings. To understand the potential costs for your specific situation and discuss our fee structure, schedule a consultation where we can evaluate your case and provide a detailed breakdown of expected expenses and available payment options.
What are my options if the other party isn’t upholding their end of a contract?
When another party breaches a contract, you have several legal remedies available under Florida law depending on the severity of the breach and your specific damages. Your options include seeking monetary damages to compensate for financial losses caused by the breach, requesting specific performance to force the other party to fulfill their contractual obligations, or pursuing contract rescission to cancel the agreement and restore both parties to their pre-contract position. You may also be entitled to consequential damages for additional losses that resulted from the breach, such as lost profits or costs incurred due to their failure to perform.
Before pursuing litigation, consider sending a formal demand letter outlining the breach and requesting compliance, as this can sometimes resolve the matter without court involvement and may be required under your contract terms. If the breach is ongoing, you might seek a temporary restraining order or injunction to prevent further harm to your business. In cases where the other party’s breach is substantial, you may have grounds to terminate the contract and seek damages for any losses incurred. The statute of limitations for contract disputes in Florida is typically five years for written contracts and four years for oral agreements, so timely action is important. Contact our attorneys for a consultation to review your contract terms, assess your damages, and determine the most effective strategy for enforcing your rights and recovering compensation.
Miami Breach of Contract Lawyer
Breach Of Contract Lawyer Miami, FL
If you are concerned that you may be part of a breach in contract, then we suggest contacting a Miami, FL breach of contract lawyer from Perez Mayoral, P.A. for assistance. We know that even the most savvy and thoughtful business owners may find themselves in a contract issue at some point. Despite the best of intentions, one or more parties in an agreement may have failed to fulfill partial or the entity of their duties. Anytime that a breach in contract happens, another party has the right to file a lawsuit if there is sufficient proof to show the breach, in addition to the amount of loss that was caused.
A breach in contract can be minor, or vast and even constitute as a crime (like embezzlement or fraud). If the terms within the contract are not met, whether modest or substantial, the failing party may have to compensate for the other party’s damages. As a Miami breach of contract lawyer can explain, a breach in contract could be related to:
- Performing a type of job
- Delivering services as scheduled
- Delivering goods as promised
- Completing the entirety of a job
- Inability to fulfill job within expected timeframe
- Defective or misrepresented goods or services
If terms are breached and damages are directly tied to that breach, the other party does have grounds to sue. When entering a business contract or partnership with others, it is essential to have clarity about the terms and expectations within a contract before it is signed. There are instances where a breach in contract can be amended without the need for legal action. The parties may be able to resolve the problem and come to their own agreed upon solutions. But if a breach can be proven, the party who breached the contract may be subject to legal action and the consequences enforced by law accordingly.
Preventing a breach in contract may not be completely avoidable, but the chances can be greatly reduced by taking certain preventative measures. Some things you can do now to limit the risk include hiring a reputable lawyer as you launch your business, drafting appropriate agreements, reviewing contracts on a regular basis, monitoring contract performance, having defined metrics to ensure compliance, and making plans to oversee contracts while watching out for warning signs of breach.
Having written contracts can help protect you, your business, and show respect for the other parties involved in the agreement. Verbal contracts may be honored by law, however, they are more challenging to prove, so you would be doing yourself a disservice by not having an official document for your transactions. Despite most people entering into contracts with only the best of intentions, breaches can still happen. Doing what you can now to reduce the likelihood of a contract breach is going to be beneficial for your company and its success.
Consider speaking with a Miami breach of contract lawyer from Perez Mayoral, P.A. if you have more questions about contracts or need assistance with handling a breach.
Moral Clause
A Miami, FL breach of contract lawyer can represent a wide variety of clients in the business industry and can assist in an array of matters. Whether you are in film and television, comics, publishing, music, advertising, or marketing, we have the experience to represent you at Perez Mayoral, P.A.. Our dedicated lawyers will work hard to represent you on contract negotiation, litigation, business matters, licensing and rights acquisition, branding, and other outside general counsel services. We have years of experience representing all types of clients who are involved in business and will be on your side no matter what your specific needs may be.
A moral clause is a term in a contract which details how the individual or party in the contract must behave. The main reason a morals clause is added to a contract is to hold the individual or party to a certain standard so they do not bring any disdain or scandal to the other party on the contract. Basically, this clause is thought to protect everyone’s best interests. It is created to attempt to preserve a public image of both parties in the contract.
Universal Studios was the first company to include a moral clause in their contracts in 1921. Many believe that it was a reaction to Roscoe “Fatty” Arbuckle’s case from 1921. Arbuckle was a silent film actor, director, screenwriter, and comedian and in 1921 was on trial for the rape and manslaughter of a fellow actress, Virginia Rappe. After three trials, he was acquitted. However, he was ostracized from the entertainment industry and his films were banned for a year. This is considered to be Hollywood’s first major scandal. After this scandal, Universal Studios included a morals clause in every contract stating that the actor must conduct himself honorably and cannot do anything to make himself or Universal Studios look bad. If someone were to violate their morals clause, the company has every right to cancel their contract with the actor.
Morals clauses are most commonly seen in contracts between actors and studios, athletes and their organization, and athletes and companies of products they may endorse. Typically, the activities mentioned in these clauses pertain to alcohol use, illegal drugs, or unlawful sexual activity. Babe Ruth was the first professional athlete to have a morals clause added to his contract in 1922. His morals clause stated he could not drink any intoxicating liquors, stay out past 1 A.M, or do any action that would affect his game performance. As a Miami breach of contract lawyer has seen, the morals clause is still actively used today.
The professional team at Perez Mayoral, P.A. have an in-depth understanding of the laws that affect the business industry. Our knowledge of entertainment law along with our experience in trials will ensure you to feel comfortable with our well-qualified team. We will work hard to represent you and keep everything in your best interest. Call a Miami breach of contract lawyer and make an appointment to learn how we can best help you.
5 Risks of Not Hiring a Breach of Contract Lawyer
Every type of business transaction requires a contract, which helps to ensure that parties make their legal commitments, as a Miami, FL breach of contract lawyer can elaborate on. When a breach of contract occurs however, it can result in serious consequences for businesses. Many business owners may attempt to handle breach of contract disputes on their own, without seeking the assistance of a qualified breach of contract lawyer. Unfortunately, this can be a risky decision that may lead to costly and damaging outcomes. Be aware of the common risks you take if you decide not to consult with a breach of contract lawyer; instead, contact a lawyer at Perez Mayoral, P.A. today.
Financial Loss: A breach of contract can lead to steep monetary losses, which can jeopardize everyone involved. If you are not familiar with contract law and do not have legal expertise in handling breach of contract cases, you may not be able to effectively negotiate or litigate on your behalf. This can result in unfavorable outcomes, such as having to pay damages, losing money on a breached contract, or missing out on potential compensation. A breach of contract lawyer can provide you with the necessary legal guidance to protect your financial interests and help you recover any losses incurred.
Damaged Business Reputation: A breach of contract can damage your business reputation, particularly if it becomes a public dispute. Clients, partners, and other stakeholders may view your business as unprofessional or unreliable if you fail to enforce your contracts or pursue legal action when necessary. As a result, the company’s reputation can be severely damaged and tarnished. Hiring a Miami breach of contract lawyer can help you navigate the legal process efficiently and effectively, safeguarding your business reputation.
Legal Liability: Breach of contract disputes can result in legal liability. If you do not have a thorough understanding of contract law and fail to comply with legal requirements, you may inadvertently expose your business to legal liability. This can include being sued by the other party for damages or facing regulatory fines and penalties. With a breach of contract lawyer at your side, you can avoid being sued or experience other legal hurdles.
Procedural Mistakes: Legal proceedings involving breach of contract cases can be complex and require adherence to specific procedural rules and deadlines. Failing to meet these requirements can result in your case being dismissed or facing adverse legal consequences. Without proper legal representation, you may make procedural mistakes that could jeopardize your case. A lawyer to support you throughout your case can help you avoid simple and common mistakes.
Missed Opportunities for Resolution: Breach of contract disputes can often be resolved through negotiation, mediation, or alternative dispute resolution methods, which can be cost-effective and time-saving. Be aware however that you may not be aware of these options or how to effectively negotiate or mediate a resolution. This can result in missed opportunities for resolving the dispute outside of court, leading to prolonged legal battles and increased costs. With a lawyer at your side, you can have a fierce advocate at your side so that you can always have ongoing support and helpful counsel.
Not hiring a breach of contract lawyer can pose significant risks to your business. From financial losses and damage to your business reputation to legal liability, procedural mistakes, and missed opportunities for resolution, attempting to handle a breach of contract dispute without legal expertise can be detrimental. Be sure to hire a Miami qualified breach of contract lawyer such as one from Perez Mayoral, P.A. who can provide you with the necessary legal guidance and representation to protect your business interests and increase your chances of a favorable outcome.
Miami Breach Of Contract Infographic
Miami Breach of Contract Lawyer FAQs
As a Miami, FL breach of contract lawyer can explain, breach of contract is a legal term that refers to a situation where one party fails to fulfill their contractual obligations. This can lead to legal disputes and potential financial losses for both parties involved. If you are dealing with this, contact Perez Mayoral, P.A. for help. In the meantime, here are some of the most common questions about breaching contracts:
What constitutes a breach of contract?
A breach of contract occurs when one party fails to perform their obligations as outlined in the contract. This could be failing to pay for goods or services, not delivering goods on time, or not completing a project as agreed. The breach could be a partial or total failure to perform the obligations outlined in the contract. However, not all breaches of contract are the same, and they can be categorized as minor, material, or fundamental breaches. A minor breach is a non-material violation of a contract, whereas a material breach is a serious violation that affects the core of the contract’s purpose. A fundamental breach is a significant violation that goes to the heart of the agreement, and it allows the non-breaching party to terminate the contract and seek damages. A lawyer can help you decide which kind of breach you are dealing with as well as how to handle it.
What are the consequences of breaching a contract?
The consequences of breaching a contract vary depending on the severity of the breach, the terms of the contract, and the specific circumstances of the case. The non-breaching party may have the right to terminate the contract, seek damages, or specific performance. Specific performance is a court order that requires the breaching party to perform their obligations under the contract. Damages may be awarded to compensate the non-breaching party for any financial losses incurred as a result of the breach. In some cases, the parties may be able to negotiate a settlement outside of court. Contact a Miami breach of contract lawyer for help if someone has breached a contract you held with them.
Can a contract be breached without penalty?
No, breaching a contract usually has consequences, including financial penalties or damages. The parties to a contract have a legal obligation to fulfill their contractual obligations, and failing to do so may result in legal action. However, there may be some instances where a contract can be breached without penalty if there are extenuating circumstances, such as a force majeure event that makes it impossible to fulfill the obligations outlined in the contract. In such cases, the parties may be able to negotiate a new agreement or seek a court order that modifies the terms of the contract. Sometimes both parties are happy to breach a contract, which is perfectly acceptable. However, if you want out of a contract and the other party does not, you will need legal help.
Can a breach of contract be avoided?
Yes, a breach of contract can be avoided by ensuring that the contract is well-drafted and that both parties understand their obligations. This includes clearly defining the scope of work, the timeline for completion, and the consequences of non-performance. Additionally, parties may want to consider including a dispute resolution clause in the contract that outlines the process for resolving any disagreements that may arise. Communication between the parties throughout the duration of the contract can also help to prevent misunderstandings and potential breaches; if at any time you have questions about a contract, you should definitely ask.
What should I do if I have breached a contract?
If you have breached a contract, the first step is to review the terms of the contract and determine the severity of the breach. Depending on the situation, you may want to consider contacting the other party to discuss the breach and explore options for resolving the issue. It may be possible to negotiate a new agreement or reach a settlement without going to court; it is possible for both parties to mutually agree to dissolve a contract. However, if legal action is necessary, you may want to seek the advice of a lawyer who can help you navigate the process and protect your interests. It’s important to take action quickly to avoid further damage to the relationship between the parties and any potential financial losses.
Contact a Miami breach of contract lawyer at Perez Mayoral, P.A. for help.