Business Litigation in Lafayette, Louisiana

When a Business Dispute Arises

Disputes with customers, vendors, partners, or competitors can threaten cash flow and distract from running your company. The first step is usually a clear-eyed assessment: what the documents say, what the facts show, what remedies are realistically available, and what resolving the dispute will cost. Many matters can be resolved through a demand letter, negotiation, or mediation. When they cannot, we are prepared to go to court.

Matters We Handle

• Breach of contract claims
• Partner, member, and shareholder disputes
• Disputes over unpaid invoices and open accounts
• Construction and payment disputes
• Oilfield service agreement disputes
• Disputes arising from the purchase or sale of a business

Courtroom Experience

Holden Hoggatt's experience as an Assistant District Attorney gives him courtroom experience that complements his business practice. Business cases from Lafayette Parish are commonly heard in the 15th Judicial District Court, which also serves Acadia and Vermilion Parishes, and in some cases in federal court in the Western District of Louisiana.

Act Promptly

Louisiana law sets deadlines, called prescriptive periods, for filing different kinds of claims. Some are short. Contracts may also include notice requirements or deadlines of their own. If you think you have a claim, or that one may be brought against you, it is wise to talk with a lawyer early and to preserve emails, invoices, contracts, and other records.

Preventing the Next Dispute

Because the firm also handles business formation and transactions, we look at how a dispute arose and how better contracts or owner agreements could prevent the next one. Our goal is to help you resolve the problem in front of you in a way that makes business sense.

Common Questions

Will my case go to trial? Most business disputes resolve before trial, through negotiation, mediation, or motions. We prepare each matter as if it may be tried, because that preparation usually leads to better settlement outcomes too.

What should I bring to a first meeting? Bring the contract or agreement involved, key emails and texts, invoices or payment records, and any letters or court papers you have received. A short timeline of events is also helpful.

Can you help if I have been sued? Yes. If you have been served with a lawsuit, deadlines to respond begin running right away, so contact a lawyer promptly.