Contract Dispute? Here’s What California Business Owners Should Do First

At Apricity Law, we’ve represented businesses in a wide range of contract disputes — from unpaid invoices and vendor failures to complex breach of partnership agreements. The first week after a dispute arises is critical.

Here’s what we recommend to every business owner in California:

Stop Informal Communications

Resist the urge to call, text, or email emotionally. Informal messages can create binding contract modifications or harm your case later. Communicate only through counsel or with legal guidance.

Gather All Contract-Related Documents

Locate the signed agreement, any amendments, emails, change orders, invoices, and related documents. Create a timeline of events and identify all correspondence with the other party.

Preserve Evidence

Keep copies of communications, screenshots, payment records, and internal discussions. You may need them later for discovery or settlement leverage.

Review Your Legal Options

Depending on the agreement, you may need to send a demand letter, initiate mediation, or file suit. Acting quickly prevents the other side from controlling the narrative.

Evaluate Business Disruption vs. Legal Value

Not every contract breach justifies litigation. We help clients assess whether the cost and risk of litigation outweigh the potential recovery, and when strategic settlement makes sense.

Business litigation isn’t just about winning — it’s about protecting your reputation, your time, and your bottom line. We guide clients through high-stakes disputes with clarity and strategy.

If you're facing a breach of contract, talk to Apricity Law before you respond.