Best Contract Lawyers in District of Columbia

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Lippes Mathias LLP
Washington, United States

Founded in 1965
177 people in their team
English
Lippes Mathias LLP is a full-service law firm with more than 135 attorneys serving clients regionally, nationally, and internationally. With offices in Buffalo, N.Y.; Albany, N.Y.; Burlington, Ontario; Chicago, Ill.; New York City; Jacksonville, Fla; and Washington, D.C., the firm represents a wide...

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...

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...
Greenberg Traurig, LLP.
Washington, United States

Founded in 1967
2,300 people in their team
English
Five decades ago, while at lunch in a South Florida deli, attorneys Larry J. Hoffman, Mel Greenberg, and Robert Traurig saw an opportunity to establish a new breed of law firm for South Florida; a firm that mirrored a New York style firm. In 1967, they founded the law firm Greenberg Traurig...
Dorsey & Whitney LLP
Washington, 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...
BALCH & BINGHAM LLP
Washington, United States

Founded in 1922
439 people in their team
English
Balch & Bingham LLP is a corporate law firm with more than 230 attorneys across offices in Birmingham and Montgomery, Alabama; Jacksonville, Florida; Atlanta, Georgia; Gulfport and Jackson, Mississippi; Houston, Texas and Washington, D.C. We are recognized for our deep experience serving...
Verrill Dana LLP.
Washington, United States

Founded in 1862
213 people in their team
English
Decency, honesty, and judgment. The values that define Verrill as a law firm are the reason our clients trust and choose us time and time again. We don't compromise our values and our clients don't compromise on quality. Our experience and New England roots date back more than 150 years, and today,...
Perkins Coie LLP
Washington, United States

Founded in 1912
2,875 people in their team
English
Perkins Coie is a leading international law firm that is known for providing high value, strategic solutions and extraordinary client service on matters vital to our clients' success. With more than 1,200 attorneys in offices across the United States and Asia, we provide a full array of corporate,...
Kutak Rock LLP.
Washington, 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...
Weil, Gotshal & Manges LLP
Washington, United States

Founded in 1931
1,100 people in their team
English
Founded in 1931, Weil has provided legal services to the largest public companies, private equity firms and financial institutions for the past 90 years. Widely recognized by those covering the legal profession, Weil’s lawyers regularly advise clients globally on their most complex Litigation,...
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United States Contract Legal Questions answered by Lawyers

Browse our 1 legal question 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
How much is your fee for looking over a contract on the house I am about to purchase.
Lawyer answer by US Legal Group 美国法律集团律师事务所

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,...

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About Contract Law in District of Columbia, United States

Contract law in the District of Columbia governs the creation, enforcement, and interpretation of agreements between two or more parties. These contracts may be written, oral, or implied by conduct. In D.C., as in most jurisdictions in the United States, contracts are legally binding agreements that require certain elements such as offer, acceptance, consideration, and mutual intent to be enforceable. The courts in D.C. can resolve disputes if one party believes another has failed to fulfill their contractual obligations, or if there is a question about the validity or terms of a contract.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

While many simple agreements can sometimes be handled without legal assistance, there are several situations in which consulting a contract lawyer in D.C. can be crucial. Some common scenarios include:

  • Drafting complex contracts for business transactions, employment, real estate, or large purchases
  • Reviewing a contract before you sign, to ensure your interests are protected
  • Negotiating contract terms or resolving disputes over existing agreements
  • Facing allegations that you have breached a contract or seeking to enforce a contract against someone else
  • Understanding the effects of local laws or specific provisions unique to D.C.
  • Dealing with contracts involving government entities or regulated industries
  • Challenging the validity of a contract based on fraud, misrepresentation, or incapacity

Local Laws Overview

The District of Columbia applies both common law principles and statutes to contract disputes. Some key aspects relevant to contract law in D.C. include:

  • Statute of Frauds: Certain contracts, such as those for the sale of real estate or goods over a certain value, must be in writing to be enforceable.
  • Parol Evidence Rule: D.C. limits the use of oral statements to clarify or contradict written contracts.
  • Interpretation: D.C. courts favor the plain meaning of the contract language, but will consider the parties' intent if the language is ambiguous.
  • Unconscionability: Contracts or clauses found to be grossly unfair or one-sided may not be enforced.
  • Enforcement of Non-Compete Clauses: D.C. has specific requirements for the enforceability of non-compete agreements, especially in employment contracts.
  • Damages and Remedies: Remedies typically include compensatory damages, but under certain conditions, rescission or specific performance may be available.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is required for a contract to be valid in the District of Columbia?

A valid contract in D.C. generally requires an offer, acceptance, consideration (something of value exchanged), mutual intent to be bound, and legal capacity of the parties.

Are oral contracts enforceable in D.C.?

Oral contracts are enforceable in D.C., except in cases where the Statute of Frauds requires the agreement to be in writing, such as contracts involving real estate or goods over a certain value.

What happens if someone breaches a contract?

If a contract is breached in D.C., the non-breaching party may be entitled to remedies such as damages, rescission, or specific performance, depending on the case's facts.

How long do I have to file a lawsuit for breach of contract in D.C.?

The statute of limitations for most written contracts in D.C. is three years from the date of breach, but this can vary depending on the contract type and circumstances.

Can I cancel a contract after signing in D.C.?

Generally, contracts are legally binding after signing. However, certain contracts may allow for a "cooling-off" period or may be cancelled due to fraud, misrepresentation, or other legal grounds.

Do I need a lawyer to review my contract?

It is not required by law, but it is strongly recommended to have a lawyer review any significant or complex contract to protect your interests and prevent potential disputes.

What are the consequences of signing a contract without understanding it?

You are generally bound by the terms of any contract you sign, whether or not you understood it. Courts in D.C. assume you have read and understood the contract unless there is proof of fraud or incapacity.

Are non-compete agreements enforceable in the District of Columbia?

Non-compete agreements are subject to strict requirements and limitations in D.C., especially for certain categories of workers. Recent laws have restricted their use for many employees.

Can I modify a contract after it has been signed?

Yes, but any modification must generally be agreed to by all parties, and significant changes should be made in writing to avoid disputes.

What is "consideration" in a contract?

Consideration is something of value exchanged between parties, such as money, services, or goods. It is required for most contracts to be enforceable in D.C.

Additional Resources

If you need more information about contract law or legal assistance in the District of Columbia, the following resources can be helpful:

  • District of Columbia Bar Association - Public resources and lawyer referral services
  • District of Columbia Courts Self-Help Center - Offers guidance on contract cases and small claims
  • Office of the Attorney General for the District of Columbia - Consumer protection and contract-related issues
  • Legal Aid Society of the District of Columbia - Assistance for those who qualify based on income
  • United States District Court for the District of Columbia - Handles certain federal contract disputes

Next Steps

If you need legal assistance with a contract in the District of Columbia, here are some recommended steps:

  • Gather all documentation and communications related to your contract
  • Identify deadlines or key dates, especially if legal action may be necessary
  • Consult with a qualified contract lawyer in D.C. to review your situation
  • Consider using local legal aid services if you have limited financial resources
  • Act promptly, as your rights may be affected by deadlines or statutory limitations

A knowledgeable attorney can help you understand your rights and options, negotiate on your behalf, draft or review contract terms, and represent you in legal proceedings if needed.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in District of Columbia 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 District of Columbia, 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.