Florida Business Litigation & Whistleblower Lawyers
Rabin Kammerer Johnson is a boutique law firm in West Palm Beach, Florida, specializing in complex business litigation, whistleblower-qui tam actions, and securities arbitration & litigation. We are dedicated to finding efficient and creative solutions to problems, providing outstanding legal services to our clients, and advocating for our clients before courts, juries, and arbitrators. Our experience and background make the firm well suited to handle the most complex of disputes, while our size and efficiency allow us to work on creative fee structures, including reasonable hourly fee arrangements, contingency fee agreements in appropriate cases, and mixed hourly and contingency fee structures.
Our firm has been named a Tier 1 “Best Law Firm” in Commercial Litigation in West Palm Beach by “Best Lawyers in America,” and our attorneys have been recognized as among the “Top Lawyers” in South Florida by the South Florida Legal Guide, listed as the “Legal Elite” by Florida Trend, and named as Florida “Super Lawyers” by Thomson Reuters.
Florida Business Litigation: Protecting Your Rights in Complex Disputes
Business disputes can arise in many forms, from breaches of contract and fraud to securities violations and whistleblower claims. In Florida, business litigation plays a crucial role in ensuring that companies, investors, and individuals are treated fairly under the law. Navigating these legal challenges requires experienced representation, especially when dealing with complex statutes and regulatory bodies. Rabin Kammerer Johnson are trusted Florida business litigation lawyers that provides strategic legal counsel and aggressive advocacy in a wide range of business-related disputes.
Business Litigation Laws and Key Considerations
Florida’s business landscape is dynamic and competitive, making legal disputes inevitable. Business litigation covers a wide range of conflicts that arise in corporate and commercial dealings, from breach of contract to shareholder disputes. Whether you are a business owner, partner, or shareholder, ensuring your rights are protected is essential for maintaining the integrity of your business. Rabin Kammerer Johnson has the experience and legal expertise to guide businesses through complex litigation matters and achieve favorable outcomes.
Florida business litigation is governed by a combination of state statutes, federal laws, and contract principles. Some key legal concepts in Florida business disputes include:
- Breach of Contract – Businesses frequently engage in disputes over contractual obligations. Florida law allows plaintiffs to recover damages when a party fails to uphold its contractual commitments.
- Tortious Interference – If a third party improperly interferes with a business relationship or contract, legal action can be taken to recover damages.
- Non-Compete Agreements – Florida law allows enforcement of non-compete agreements, but they must be reasonable in scope, duration, and geographic area.
- Shareholder and Partnership Disputes – Disagreements among business owners over control, financial distributions, or breaches of fiduciary duty often lead to litigation.
- Trade Secrets and Intellectual Property Protection – Businesses rely on trade secret protections under the Florida Uniform Trade Secrets Act (FUTSA) to prevent unfair competition.
Florida courts recognize both compensatory and punitive damages in business litigation. In some cases, injunctive relief is granted to prevent ongoing harm, such as enforcing a non-compete agreement or stopping deceptive business practices. Understanding these laws and how they apply to specific cases requires legal expertise, which Rabin Kammerer Johnson provides to businesses and individuals across Florida.
Breach of Contract
Contracts form the foundation of business transactions, setting the terms and obligations for all parties involved. When one party fails to uphold their end of the agreement, a breach of contract claim may arise. Florida law recognizes three types of contract breaches:
- Material Breach – A significant violation that undermines the core of the agreement.
- Minor Breach – A partial failure that does not completely negate the contract.
- Anticipatory Breach – One party indicates they will not fulfill their obligations before the due date.
Florida contract law follows the principle of compensatory damages, where the injured party is entitled to monetary relief for losses incurred due to the breach. In some cases, courts may enforce specific performance, requiring the breaching party to fulfill their obligations. Rabin Kammerer Johnson assists businesses in analyzing contract disputes, pursuing legal remedies, and ensuring that agreements are properly enforced.
Non-Compete Agreements and Disputes
Non-compete agreements are essential for protecting a company’s confidential information, trade secrets, and client relationships. Florida law allows non-compete clauses, but they must meet certain requirements under Florida Statute § 542.335, which mandates that they must be reasonable in:
- Duration
- Geographic scope
- Business interests being protected
If a non-compete agreement is too restrictive or unfairly limits an employee’s future employment opportunities, courts may modify or invalidate it. Rabin Kammerer Johnson represents businesses enforcing non-compete agreements and individuals challenging unfair restrictions, ensuring compliance with Florida’s laws while protecting business interests.
LLC Breakups & Disputes
Limited liability companies (LLCs) are structured to provide flexibility in ownership and management, but disputes among members can disrupt operations. Common reasons for LLC disputes include:
- Disagreements over financial distributions
- Management conflicts
- Allegations of mismanagement or fraud
- Failure to uphold fiduciary duties
Under the Florida Revised Limited Liability Company Act (F.S. Chapter 605), an LLC breakup can occur through voluntary dissolution, judicial dissolution, or member buyouts. When disputes escalate, legal intervention may be necessary to protect business interests and ensure a fair resolution. Rabin Kammerer Johnson helps LLC members navigate disputes, negotiate buyouts, and pursue litigation if necessary.
Business Disputes
Business disputes can arise in a variety of forms, affecting operations, finances, and reputation. Common business disputes include:
- Breach of fiduciary duty
- Misappropriation of trade secrets
- Vendor and supplier disagreements
- Partnership conflicts
Florida courts encourage alternative dispute resolution (ADR) methods, such as mediation and arbitration, to resolve business conflicts without prolonged litigation. However, when ADR fails, litigation may be necessary to protect a business’s rights and interests. Rabin Kammerer Johnson aggressively represents clients in business disputes, ensuring their rights are upheld and financial interests are safeguarded.
Shareholder Disputes
Shareholder disputes can disrupt corporate governance and impact business profitability. These conflicts often arise from:
- Disagreements over dividend distributions
- Mismanagement of company resources
- Oppression of minority shareholders
- Fraudulent financial practices
Florida law provides protections for shareholders under the Florida Business Corporation Act (F.S. Chapter 607), which outlines remedies for shareholders facing corporate misconduct, including derivative lawsuits and involuntary dissolution. Rabin Kammerer Johnson helps shareholders assert their rights, resolve conflicts, and pursue legal action against corporate wrongdoing.
Tortious Interference with Business Relationships and Contracts
When a third party intentionally disrupts a business relationship or contract, it can lead to significant financial losses. Florida law recognizes tortious interference as a legal claim when:
- A valid business relationship or contract exists.
- A third party knowingly interferes with that relationship.
- The interference results in economic harm.
Tortious interference can occur in various business transactions, including mergers, acquisitions, and client agreements. Remedies may include compensatory damages or injunctive relief to prevent further harm. Rabin Kammerer Johnson helps businesses take legal action against wrongful interference, protecting their contracts and relationships.
Electronic Discovery in Business Litigation
Electronic discovery (e-discovery) plays a crucial role in modern business litigation. As digital communication and data storage have become standard, legal disputes often require retrieving and analyzing electronic evidence, such as:
- Emails and text messages
- Financial records and contracts
- Social media posts
- Metadata and server logs
Florida follows the Florida Rules of Civil Procedure, which include guidelines for e-discovery in litigation. Failure to preserve electronic evidence can lead to legal consequences, including sanctions for spoliation. Rabin Kammerer Johnson provides expertise in handling electronic discovery, ensuring that digital evidence is properly collected, preserved, and presented in court.
What Will an Experienced Florida Business Litigation Firm Handle?
Business litigation requires strategic legal representation to protect your financial interests, corporate reputation, and business operations. Rabin Kammerer Johnson brings extensive experience in handling complex business disputes, offering:
- Aggressive litigation strategies tailored to each case
- Skilled negotiation and mediation to resolve conflicts efficiently
- Comprehensive contract analysis to strengthen business agreements
- Dedicated legal advocacy to protect shareholder and corporate rights
If you are facing a business dispute, Rabin Kammerer Johnson provides the legal support necessary to safeguard your interests and secure a favorable resolution. Contact us today to discuss your case and explore your legal options.
Florida Business Litigation FAQs
What types of business disputes commonly lead to litigation in Florida?
Business disputes in Florida often arise from breach of contract, non-compete violations, shareholder disagreements, partnership disputes, and tortious interference with business relationships. Other common litigation issues include fraud, misrepresentation, and disputes over intellectual property rights.
How does Florida law handle non-compete agreements in business litigation?
Florida law, under Florida Statute § 542.335, allows non-compete agreements but requires them to be reasonable in duration, geographic scope, and the legitimate business interests they protect. If an agreement is overly restrictive, a court may modify or void it. Businesses seeking to enforce or challenge a non-compete agreement should seek legal guidance.
What legal remedies are available for breach of contract in Florida?
If a contract is breached, the non-breaching party may seek monetary damages, specific performance (requiring the breaching party to fulfill their obligations), or rescission (canceling the contract). Florida courts may also award attorney’s fees if specified in the contract.
How are LLC disputes resolved under Florida law?
LLC disputes can be resolved through negotiation, mediation, or litigation. Florida’s Revised Limited Liability Company Act (F.S. Chapter 605) allows for judicial dissolution if members can no longer work together. Courts may also enforce buyout provisions or hold members accountable for misconduct.
What should a business do if accused of violating a non-compete agreement?
If accused of violating a non-compete agreement, a business should review the contract’s enforceability and determine whether the restrictions are reasonable under Florida law. Seeking legal representation is crucial to defending against enforcement actions and negotiating fair resolutions.
Can a shareholder file a lawsuit against a company in Florida?
Yes, under the Florida Business Corporation Act (F.S. Chapter 607), shareholders can file lawsuits for mismanagement, fraud, or oppression by majority shareholders. They may also bring derivative lawsuits on behalf of the company if corporate officers are engaging in wrongful conduct.
What is tortious interference, and how does it impact business litigation?
Tortious interference occurs when a third party intentionally disrupts an existing business relationship or contract, causing economic harm. In Florida, businesses can sue for damages if they can prove that the interference was unjustified and directly led to financial losses.
How is electronic discovery (e-discovery) used in Florida business litigation?
E-discovery involves collecting, analyzing, and presenting digital evidence, including emails, financial records, and metadata. Florida courts follow specific e-discovery rules, and businesses must properly preserve electronic records to avoid sanctions for evidence destruction (spoliation).
Can a business dispute be resolved without going to court in Florida?
Yes, Florida courts encourage alternative dispute resolution (ADR) methods such as mediation and arbitration. These approaches can help resolve disputes faster and more cost-effectively than litigation while keeping business matters confidential.
1How can a business litigation attorney help with Florida business disputes?
A business litigation attorney can assess legal risks, negotiate settlements, enforce contracts, and represent clients in court. They help businesses protect their financial interests, navigate complex disputes, and ensure compliance with Florida business laws.
Whistleblower Claims in Florida
Whistleblowers play a vital role in exposing corporate misconduct, fraud against the government, and regulatory violations. Florida law, along with federal statutes such as the False Claims Act (FCA) and the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act, protects whistleblowers from retaliation while offering potential financial rewards for exposing wrongdoing.
Common whistleblower cases in Florida involve:
- Healthcare fraud, including Medicare and Medicaid billing fraud
- Securities and investment fraud
- Government contract fraud
- Tax fraud or financial misrepresentation
Whistleblowers may file qui tam lawsuits, where they bring a claim on behalf of the government against an entity engaged in fraudulent activities. If successful, the whistleblower may receive a percentage of the recovered funds. However, reporting fraud can be risky, making it essential to have legal representation to protect against retaliation and maximize potential rewards. Rabin Kammerer Johnson has extensive experience representing whistleblowers and ensuring their rights are upheld throughout the legal process.
Fraud Litigation: Fighting Deceptive Business Practices
Fraud in business transactions can lead to serious financial losses for individuals and companies. Florida business litigation attorneys frequently handle fraud claims involving:
- Misrepresentation and deceptive business practices
- Breach of fiduciary duty
- Corporate fraud
- Embezzlement or financial misconduct
Under Florida’s Deceptive and Unfair Trade Practices Act (FDUTPA), businesses and individuals that engage in misleading or deceptive practices can be held accountable. This law provides remedies for victims, including monetary damages and injunctive relief to prevent further harm.
Additionally, Florida law recognizes both actual fraud (intentional misrepresentation) and constructive fraud (misrepresentation due to a breach of duty). Proving fraud requires demonstrating that the defendant knowingly made false statements that caused financial harm to the plaintiff. Because fraud cases often involve complex financial records and deceptive conduct, businesses and individuals need skilled legal counsel. Rabin Kammerer Johnson has successfully prosecuted and defended fraud claims, helping clients recover losses and safeguard their interests.
Securities Arbitration and Litigation in Florida
The securities industry is highly regulated, and disputes frequently arise between investors, brokers, and financial institutions. Many securities disputes are resolved through arbitration rather than traditional litigation, particularly if an investor has signed an arbitration agreement with a brokerage firm. The Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) oversees securities arbitration, providing an alternative to courtroom litigation.
Common securities disputes include:
- Stockbroker misconduct and misrepresentation
- Unauthorized trading
- Churning (excessive trading to generate commissions)
- Breach of fiduciary duty by financial advisors
- Ponzi schemes and investment fraud
While arbitration can be faster and less expensive than litigation, it is still a complex process that requires strategic legal representation. Investors who suffer losses due to broker misconduct or fraudulent investment schemes may be entitled to financial compensation. Rabin Kammerer Johnson has a proven track record of advocating for investors in both arbitration and litigation, holding financial professionals accountable for their misconduct.
Serving Throughout Florida
- Boca Raton
- Fort Lauderdale
- Fort Pierce
- Jacksonville
- Miami
- Orlando
- Palm Beach Gardens
- Port St. Lucie
- Stuart
- Tampa
- Wellington
- West Palm Beach
- St. Petersburg
- Hialeah
- Tallahassee
- Cape Coral
- Pembroke Pines
- Hollywood
- Gainesville
- Miramar
- Coral Springs
- Lehigh Acres
- Miami Gardens
- Clearwater
- Palm Bay
- Lakeland
How Rabin Kammerer Johnson Can Help
Rabin Kammerer Johnson is a premier Florida business litigation law firm dedicated to helping clients navigate complex legal disputes. Whether you are a business owner facing a contractual disagreement, an investor who has suffered financial losses due to fraud, or a whistleblower seeking to expose corporate wrongdoing, the firm provides skilled legal representation tailored to your needs.
The firm’s attorneys offer:
- Extensive experience in state and federal business litigation
- Aggressive representation in fraud and securities disputes
- Comprehensive whistleblower advocacy and protection
- Strategic guidance in arbitration and courtroom litigation
Business disputes can threaten financial stability, professional reputations, and future opportunities. By working with Rabin Kammerer Johnson, clients receive trusted counsel dedicated to achieving the best possible outcome. Whether negotiating a favorable settlement or aggressively litigating a case, the firm is committed to protecting clients’ rights and ensuring justice is served.
For experienced business litigation representation in Florida, contact Rabin Kammerer Johnson today.