Best Contract Lawyers in California

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Davies & Associates, LLC
Los Angeles, United States

Founded in 2020
100 people in their team
English
Spanish
Italian
Hindi
Gujarati
Vietnamese
Corporate & Commercial Contract Government Relations & Lobbying +8 more
Davies & Associates ("D&A") has grown to become the largest global law firm specializing in US, UK and Italian business and investment immigration together with Citizenship and Residency by Investment (together, “CBI”).  Our lawyers are regarded as the leaders in the US E2...
AL Othman Law Firm Co
Los Angeles, United States

Founded in 2016
81 people in their team
English
Al Othman Lawyers and Consultants is a leading company in the legal field in Saudi Arabia and the Middle East, founded in 2016 and headquartered in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The company specializes in providing a wide range of legal services, including consulting, pleading and litigation,...
Kutak Rock LLP.
Irvine, United States

Founded in 1965
500 people in their team
English
We help communities thriveDevelopment and Improvement Districts is a signature practice of Kutak Rock. More than 50 of our attorneys represent community development and other special districts of all sizes and types, from small, in-fill residential projects to large scale multi-use commercial and...
Fennemore Craig, P.C.
Bakersfield, United States

Founded in 1885
363 people in their team
English
For 135+ years, Fennemore has provided legal counsel to help clients thrive in a complex, evolving business and legal landscape. We deliver forward-thinking advocacy to generate value for clients and help them keep pace with the rate of change by protecting legal interests and identifying...
Theodora Oringher
Los Angeles, United States

Founded in 2000
50 people in their team
English
Since its founding, Theodora Oringher has developed into a legal powerhouse boutique. We are regularly called upon by clients as their go-to firm for sophisticated, high-stakes litigation. We also provide sound and wise counsel to businesses on transactions and operations issues. Our client roster...
Wilmer Cutler Pickering Hale and Dorr LLP®
Los Angeles, United States

Founded in 1994
1,000 people in their team
English
WilmerHale is a leading, full-service international law firm with 1,000 lawyers located throughout 13 offices in the United States, Europe and Asia. Our lawyers work at the intersection of government, technology and business, and we remain committed to our guiding principles of:providing...
Howard & Howard Attorneys PLLC
Beverly Hills, United States

Founded in 1869
304 people in their team
English
Howard & Howard is a full-service law firm with a national and international practice that provides legal services to businesses and business owners. The firm has offices in Royal Oak, Michigan; Illinois (Chicago and Peoria); Las Vegas, Nevada; and Beverly Hills, California. From our...
China Legal Group

China Legal Group

30 minutes Free Consultation
Laguna Beach, United States

Founded in 2023
15 people in their team
Chinese
English
Spanish
Portuguese
Japanese
Korean
hina Legal Group 北京国桓律师事务所 - Legal Excellence Sponsoring Success -Chinese Financial and Capital Lawyer specializing in PE, VC, Capital Markets, Global IPO and Offering, M&A, Investments, Intellectual Property, etc;Worked on many high-profile deals such as Baidu.com, 58.com,...
Dorsey & Whitney LLP
Palo Alto, United States

Founded in 1912
1,390 people in their team
English
worldwide advantageYOUR BUSINESS REQUIRES AN ADVANTAGE, AN EDGE, TO SUCCEED IN A HIGHLY COMPETITIVE WORLD.Dorsey’s lawyers and staff can help you gain that edge by applying superb legal knowledge and skills with practical wisdom and a deep understanding of your business and industry.We serve...
Paul Hastings
Century City, United States

Founded in 1951
5,000 people in their team
English
With widely recognized elite teams in finance, mergers & acquisitions, private equity, restructuring and special situations, litigation, employment and real estate, Paul Hastings is a premier law firm providing superior intellectual capital and execution globally to the world’s leading...
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United States Contract Legal Questions answered by Lawyers

Browse our 2 legal questions about Contract in United States and the lawyer answers, or ask your own questions for free.

What's the fee for reviewing a Home purchase contract.
Real Estate
Contract
Hi. Thank you for reaching out to us regarding your upcoming property purchase. As a combined China & U.S. law firm, we specialize in real estate transactions and are well-equipped to review your contract.To provide you with a precise quote, kindly send us a direct message. Our legal team will then conduct a thorough analysis and promptly get back to you with a quotation.Should you have any questions, feel free to contact us. We look forward to assisting you and ensuring your property purchase is secure and hassle-free.
An American citizen purchasing 3.2 hectares of farmland for a citizen of the Philippines.
Contract
Real Estate Contracts and Negotiations
Is this for Pakistan?

About Contract Law in California, United States

Contract law in California governs the creation, execution, and enforcement of agreements between individuals, businesses, or entities. A contract is a legally binding agreement where parties consent to perform certain actions or refrain from doing specific things. In California, contracts can be written, oral, or implied by conduct, provided they meet the criteria established by state law. The laws are designed to ensure fairness, accountability, and predictability for all involved. Understanding contract law is crucial for anyone entering into agreements in California to protect their interests and avoid legal pitfalls.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

While some contracts can be straightforward, many situations make legal assistance essential. You may need a lawyer if you are drafting or reviewing a contract, facing a contract dispute, or being accused of breaching a contract. Lawyers are especially valuable when large sums of money, significant obligations, or long-term relationships are at stake. Common situations include business deals, real estate transactions, employment agreements, service contracts, and partnership dissolutions. Legal counsel helps ensure contracts clearly reflect intentions, comply with California law, and can be enforced if disputes arise.

Local Laws Overview

California contract law is shaped by statutes such as the California Civil Code and the California Commercial Code, as well as court decisions. For a contract to be valid in California, there must be mutual consent, lawful object, capable parties, and sufficient consideration (something of value exchanged). Some contracts, like those related to real estate, must be in writing under California’s Statute of Frauds. Employment agreements in California also have unique rules, such as restrictions on non-compete clauses. In addition, California follows special rules regarding rescission, modification, and damages available for breaches. The state’s consumer protection laws and unique business codes often impose additional requirements or protections that parties need to consider.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes a contract legally binding in California?

A contract is legally binding if it includes an offer, acceptance, mutual consent, lawful purpose, competent parties, and consideration. It must not violate the law or public policy.

Does a contract have to be in writing to be enforceable?

Not all contracts have to be in writing, but certain agreements, such as those for real estate or contracts that cannot be performed within a year, must be written according to the Statute of Frauds.

Can you enforce an oral contract in California?

Yes, oral contracts are generally enforceable as long as they meet all requirements for a valid contract. However, proving the terms can be difficult, and some contracts must be in writing by law.

What happens if one party breaches a contract?

If a party fails to perform their obligations as agreed, the other party may seek remedies such as damages, specific performance, or cancellation of the contract. The specific remedy depends on the nature and impact of the breach.

Are there penalties for breaking a contract?

The main consequence is usually monetary damages meant to put the non-breaching party in the position they would have been if the contract was fulfilled. Sometimes, punitive damages or specific performance (forcing a party to perform under the contract) may apply.

Can a contract be modified after it is signed?

Yes, contracts can be modified if all parties agree to the changes. In some cases, modifications must also be in writing, depending on the type of contract and legal requirements.

How long do I have to bring a lawsuit for breach of contract?

The statute of limitations in California is generally four years for written contracts and two years for oral contracts, starting from the date the breach occurred.

What if a contract contains illegal terms?

A contract with illegal terms is void and unenforceable in California. Courts will not enforce a contract that violates the law or public policy.

Are non-compete agreements enforceable in California?

Generally, non-compete clauses are not enforceable in California, except in limited situations involving the sale of a business. State law strongly favors employee mobility.

Should I consult a lawyer before signing a contract?

Yes, it is wise to consult a lawyer before signing any contract, especially if you do not fully understand the terms or potential consequences. A lawyer can help review, negotiate, and explain your rights and responsibilities under the contract.

Additional Resources

- California Department of Consumer Affairs: Offers consumer rights and contract law information.
- California Courts Self-Help Center: Guides on contracts, small claims, and civil litigation.
- State Bar of California Lawyer Referral Service: Helps find qualified contract attorneys.
- Better Business Bureau of California: Mediation and dispute resolution for business-related contract issues.
- Local law libraries: Provide access to legal forms and research assistance.

Next Steps

If you are facing a contract issue or need legal advice, start by gathering all documents and communication related to the agreement. Outline your goals and concerns. Consider consulting a California contract attorney to review your situation, advise on your rights, and represent your interests if needed. You can reach out to your local bar association for a referral or use available legal aid services if you qualify. Taking prompt action helps protect your rights and can often prevent minor issues from turning into costly legal disputes.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in California 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 Contract, 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 California, 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.