Business & Contract Disputes
Resolution of commercial litigation, breach of contract claims, and partnership disputes.
Overview
Business and contract disputes are a reality of commercial life, and when they arise, having experienced litigation counsel can mean the difference between a favorable resolution and a costly outcome. At Ennis, Baynard, Morton, Medlin & Brown, our attorneys represent businesses and individuals in all types of commercial disputes — from straightforward breach of contract claims to complex multi-party business tort litigation.
Wilmington's growing economy has brought an increase in business-related litigation. Our attorneys regularly handle disputes involving breach of contract, partnership and shareholder conflicts, non-compete and non-solicitation agreement enforcement, business torts including fraud and tortious interference, unfair and deceptive trade practices claims under North Carolina's Chapter 75, commercial lease disputes, and corporate governance matters.
Our approach to business litigation is informed by more than 100 years of combined trial experience. We understand that business disputes are not just legal matters — they have real financial consequences for our clients' operations, relationships, and bottom lines. That understanding drives us to pursue efficient resolution strategies while maintaining the trial readiness that gives our clients the strongest possible negotiating position.
Whether representing a plaintiff seeking to enforce contractual rights or a defendant facing baseless claims, our attorneys bring the same level of preparation and strategic thinking. We evaluate every commercial dispute with an eye toward cost-effective resolution, but we never sacrifice our clients' interests for the sake of expediency. When the opposing party will not negotiate in good faith, our trial experience ensures we are prepared to present a compelling case to a judge or jury.
Our business litigation practice benefits from the firm's broader expertise in insurance defense and coverage, which frequently intersects with commercial disputes when CGL or D&O policies are implicated. This cross-practice knowledge allows us to identify coverage opportunities that other firms might miss.
Types of Cases We Handle
Breach of Contract
Claims arising from the failure to perform obligations under commercial agreements.
Partnership & Shareholder Disputes
Conflicts between business partners, shareholders, and members of LLCs.
Non-Compete Enforcement
Enforcement and defense of restrictive covenants, non-compete, and non-solicitation agreements.
Business Torts
Fraud, tortious interference with contract, and unfair trade practices claims.
Commercial Lease Disputes
Landlord-tenant conflicts involving commercial properties, including eviction and lease enforcement.
Corporate Governance
Disputes involving fiduciary duties, board decisions, and corporate formalities.
Why Ennis, Baynard, Morton, Medlin & Brown
All five of our attorneys handle business and contract disputes, giving clients access to the full depth of the firm's expertise. Our trial experience across insurance defense, construction, and products liability gives us a breadth of commercial knowledge that informs our approach to every business dispute, and our Martindale-Hubbell AV Preeminent rating reflects the confidence our peers place in our commercial litigation practice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Contact an attorney promptly. Important steps include preserving all relevant documents and communications, reviewing the contract terms carefully, and assessing the financial impact of the breach. An experienced litigation attorney can evaluate your options and advise on the most effective path forward.
North Carolina courts will enforce non-compete agreements that are reasonable in scope, duration, and geographic area and that protect a legitimate business interest. However, the enforceability of any specific agreement depends on its particular terms and circumstances.
Business disputes can be resolved through direct negotiation, mediation, arbitration, or court litigation. Many commercial contracts contain dispute resolution clauses that may require mediation or arbitration before litigation. Our attorneys are experienced in all of these forums.
Need Aggressive Representation?
Contact our Wilmington office to discuss your case. We'll be where you need us.