Best Commercial Litigation Lawyers in Memphis

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Adams and Reese LLP
Memphis, United States

Founded in 1951
610 people in their team
English
Study our experience and credentials to understand why we belong on your short list. Get to know us as people, and you’ll recognize our dedication to client service. At Adams and Reese, we take things personally. Our people are connected - to each other, to our clients, our families, and our...

Founded in 1891
1,287 people in their team
English
For 130 years, Baker Donelson has built a reputation for achieving results for our clients on a wide range of legal matters. While providing legal services is our focus, it is how we deliver them that sets us apart. Our goal is to provide clients with more than what they have come to expect from a...
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About Commercial Litigation Law in Memphis, United States

Commercial litigation is a legal field that deals with disputes arising from business and commercial relationships. In Memphis, Tennessee, commercial litigation encompasses conflicts between companies, business partners, suppliers, customers, or other parties involved in commercial transactions. These disputes can touch on contract breaches, shareholder disagreements, business torts, intellectual property rights, debt collection, employment issues, and other matters that impact the operation and interests of a business. The local courts in Memphis, including the Shelby County Courts and the United States District Court for the Western District of Tennessee, regularly handle commercial litigation matters.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Whether you own a business or are involved in a business relationship, there are various circumstances where legal expertise becomes crucial. Here are some common situations where people in Memphis may require a commercial litigation attorney:

  • You are facing a breach of contract claim or need to enforce a contract
  • You are involved in a partnership or shareholder dispute
  • Your company is accused of fraud, misrepresentation, or unfair business practices
  • You need to protect your intellectual property rights
  • Your business is having trouble collecting significant unpaid debts
  • You need to defend against claims of wrongful termination or discrimination
  • Your company is subject to government investigation or regulatory action
  • You seek to pursue or defend against claims for business damages
  • Your business is involved in a real estate or property dispute
  • You are considering dissolving or restructuring your company

A qualified commercial litigation lawyer can help you navigate the legal process, develop strategies to protect your interests, and represent you in court or during settlement negotiations.

Local Laws Overview

Memphis commercial litigation is governed primarily by Tennessee state law, with some matters falling under federal jurisdiction. Key aspects of local laws relevant to commercial litigation include:

  • Contract Law - Tennessee law upholds written and, in some cases, oral contracts, but certain agreements must be in writing to be legally enforced.
  • Business Organization Law - Disputes involving partnerships, LLCs, and corporations are impacted by state statutes regulating how businesses are run and disputes are resolved.
  • Business Torts - Tennessee recognizes claims such as fraud, misrepresentation, interference with business relationships, and breach of fiduciary duty.
  • Statute of Limitations - Laws specify the timeframe within which a lawsuit must be filed. For many contract disputes, this period is six years in Tennessee.
  • Employment Law - Both federal and Tennessee laws apply to workplaces in Memphis, including those related to discrimination, wage disputes, and wrongful termination.
  • Federal Jurisdiction - Some business disputes may move to federal court if they involve federal law or parties from different states and a certain amount in controversy.

It is important to consult with an attorney familiar with both Tennessee and Memphis-specific procedures, as local court rules, filing requirements, and legal customs can all affect your case's outcome.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is commercial litigation?

Commercial litigation involves resolving disputes stemming from business relationships, contracts, and commercial transactions through legal processes in court or arbitration.

What types of cases do commercial litigation attorneys in Memphis handle?

They handle breach of contract, partnership disputes, fraud, business torts, intellectual property rights claims, employment disputes, construction matters, and more.

How long do I have to file a commercial lawsuit in Memphis?

For most contract-related claims in Tennessee, you generally have six years from the date of the breach, but other claims may have shorter or longer deadlines.

Does my case need to go to court?

Not always. Many commercial disputes are resolved through negotiation, mediation, or arbitration to avoid the cost and time of a court trial.

If my opponent is in another state, where do I file?

Jurisdiction rules can be complex. You may file in Memphis if the business activities or contract relate to Tennessee or based on agreements about where disputes are resolved. An attorney can advise you on proper venue.

Can I recover attorney's fees if I win?

In Tennessee, attorney’s fees are generally not recoverable unless specified by contract or permitted by statute. Some exceptions do exist, so review your situation with a lawyer.

What should I bring when meeting a commercial litigation attorney?

Bring relevant contracts, correspondence, business records, notes, emails, and contact information of involved parties. The more information you provide, the better your attorney can assess your case.

How do commercial litigation attorneys charge for their services?

Attorneys may work on hourly rates, flat fees, or in some cases, contingent fees. Most commercial litigation cases are billed hourly, but confirm this with your attorney during the initial consultation.

What is discovery in commercial litigation?

Discovery is the legal process where both parties exchange information, documents, and evidence before trial to prepare their cases.

How can I protect my business from future litigation?

Ensure your contracts are clear and comprehensive, keep organized records, train staff on compliance, and consult an attorney for legal review of major business decisions.

Additional Resources

For those seeking more information or assistance with commercial litigation matters in Memphis, consider reaching out to these resources:

  • Shelby County Circuit Court - Handles local commercial disputes and lawsuits
  • United States District Court for the Western District of Tennessee - Federal commercial litigation matters
  • Memphis Bar Association - Provides lawyer referral services and legal education events
  • Tennessee Secretary of State - Resources on business entities and filings
  • Better Business Bureau of the Mid-South - Provides guidance on business conduct and dispute resolution
  • Tennessee Department of Commerce and Insurance - For regulatory matters impacting businesses

Next Steps

If you believe you have a commercial dispute or are facing one in Memphis, early legal intervention can protect your interests. Consider these steps:

  • Organize all documents and communications related to your dispute
  • Identify your goals for the outcome of the dispute
  • Schedule a consultation with a qualified commercial litigation attorney licensed in Tennessee
  • Discuss your options including negotiation, mediation, arbitration, or litigation
  • Follow your attorney’s advice for preserving evidence and minimizing business disruption

Taking prompt action, being well informed, and working with a knowledgeable Memphis commercial litigation lawyer can help you achieve the best possible outcome for your legal matter.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Memphis through a curated and pre-screened list of qualified legal professionals. Our platform offers rankings and detailed profiles of attorneys and law firms, allowing you to compare based on practice areas, including Commercial Litigation, experience, and client feedback. Each profile includes a description of the firm's areas of practice, client reviews, team members and partners, year of establishment, spoken languages, office locations, contact information, social media presence, and any published articles or resources. Most firms on our platform speak English and are experienced in both local and international legal matters. Get a quote from top-rated law firms in Memphis, United States - quickly, securely, and without unnecessary hassle.

Disclaimer:
The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation. We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.