For more than 30 years, the Law Offices of William M. Kolb, LLC in Providence has effectively handled a full spectrum of Rhode Island business disputes. If you are embroiled in, or trying to avoid, a business dispute, lead attorney Bill Kolb is the attorney for you. With his strong legal skills, broad experience, and in-depth knowledge of business law, he will clarify the issues, explain the challenges, and take immediate steps to reach a resolution that works in your best interests.
Below are common types of business disputes:
Business Fraud
Business fraud involves using deceptive practices to achieve financial gain.
Deceptive practices include misrepresentation, embezzlement, and fraudulent financial statements. In Rhode Island, victims of business fraud can seek remedies under state laws, including civil suits for damages and restitution. Bill Kolb is adept at investigating and prosecuting fraud cases, with a well-deserved reputation for holding perpetrators accountable and recovering losses for victimized companies.
Breach of Contract
A breach of contract occurs when a party fails to fulfill its contractual obligations. While Rhode Island law provides pathways for resolving such breaches, including claiming damages, enforcing specific performance, or seeking contract rescission, you need a capable lawyer to see that such solutions are enforced.
Partnership Disputes
Partnership disputes typically arise from differing views of business management, financial contributions, or terms of the partnership agreement. Rhode Island’s partnership laws often require a careful review of documents and mediation. At the Law Offices of William M. Kolb, LLC, we handle partnership disputes by evaluating the details of the partnership agreement, negotiating resolutions, and, if necessary, pursuing litigation.
Mergers and Acquisitions Disputes
While mergers and acquisitions are common and usually welcome for the companies involved, post-transaction disputes are not uncommon. Our offices can handle such disputes if they occur, but we would rather avoid them to begin with by meticulously reviewing contracts, equitably dividing intellectual property, arranging to relocate employees, and ensuring company compliance with relevant regulations.
Shareholder Disputes
Shareholder disputes involve disagreements between shareholders or between shareholders and management regarding the operation and governance of the corporation. Reasons for these disputes range from claims of oppression by minority shareholders to concerns about dividend policies or corporate mismanagement in general.
Tortious Interference
Tortious interference involves unlawful actions that disrupt a business relationship or contract, resulting in economic harm. If your business has suffered harm from tortious interference, Bill Kolb will work hard to prove that the defendant acted with intent to harm (knowledge of the interference’s impact) so that you can receive the damages you deserve.
Employment Disputes
There are a number of types of employment disputes, any of which can interfere with smooth business operation.
1. Discrimination
Discrimination disputes are the result of claims by employees that they have been treated unfairly based on their race, gender, age, religion, disability, ethnicity or other characteristics protected under federal and state law. Whether you are a victim of discrimination or being falsely accused of violating discrimination laws, the Law Offices of William M. Kolb will vigorously defend your rights.
2. Harassment
Harassment in the workplace creates a hostile work environment and often affects employee job performance. If you have been sexually harassed at your workplace or are perpetually targeted for bullying or insult because of your age, race or other protected characteristic, Bill Kolb will fight to see that you recover the damages you are entitled to receive.
3. Wage & Hour Disputes
If you have a dispute involving unpaid wages, overtime violations, or a misclassification of your employee status, Rhode Island law mandates fair compensation. Bill Kolb is ready to resolve your wage and hour dispute whether you are an employee being unfairly treated or an employer who wants to ensure that your policies and conduct are in full compliance with employment law.
4. Wrongful Termination
Wrongful termination takes place when an employee is fired in violation of employment laws or contractual agreements. Wrongful termination includes firing as retaliation for whistleblowing or exercising legal rights.
5. Gross Negligence Lawsuits
In some cases, an employer’s gross negligence may have resulted in a serious employee injury on company grounds. If this has occurred, the employee may sue for damages. Bill Kolb is equally prepared to fight for the injured employee or for the business owner who has been falsely accused.
Business Dissolution Disputes
Business dissolution, the process of legally closing a business entity, can be voluntary or involuntary, but either way it can be complicated by asset distribution, settlement of debts, and compliance with regulatory requirements. Bill Kolb can help guide your business through the dissolution process smoothly and efficiently.
Effective Methods of Resolving Business Disputes
When you are in the midst of a business dispute, it helps to know that there are several practical approaches to dispute resolution:
Negotiation
“Talking it out” is typically the first step to resolving a business dispute. It does, however, require that both parties are flexible and willing to discuss the situation in a civil manner. Negotiation provides the best chance of finding an amicable solution and preserving a workable business relationship.
Mediation
In mediation, a neutral third party, who has been trained to facilitate discussions and find common ground directs the discussion. This process is less formal than court proceedings and can be a cost-effective way to resolve conflicts.
Arbitration
Arbitration, more formal than mediation, makes use of an arbiter, an impartial third party who will review the evidence from both sides and make a binding decision. Rhode Island law requires arbitration for certain types of disputes and Bill Kolb is well-practiced in representing clients in arbitration proceedings.
Litigation
When other methods fail to resolve the dispute, litigation may be necessary. Our practice has a fine track record of developing winning strategies, presenting compelling arguments, and advocating vigorously on your behalf to achieve a positive outcome.
Contact Our Accomplished Business Dispute Attorney Today
Resolving business disputes requires talent as well as experience. Fortunately, William Kolb has both. Many successful years at the negotiating table and in the courtroom have refined his skills so that he is equally prepared to assist you in all methods of resolution. Contact Bill now. You will find his remarkable ability to combine persuasion and diplomacy sets him apart and works well to support your best interests.