Maryland Commercial Contract Breach Lawyer

In the intricate world of business, commercial contracts serve as the foundational bedrock, outlining responsibilities, expectations, and the framework for collaborative enterprise. When these foundational agreements are fractured by a breach, the ripple effects can be devastating, impacting operations, finances, and reputation. As a senior attorney with over two decades of hands-on experience navigating the complexities of Maryland commercial law, I’ve witnessed firsthand the challenges businesses face when a promising agreement turns into a contentious dispute.

A breach of commercial contract in Maryland is more than just a broken promise; it’s a legal failing that can compel the non-breaching party to suffer significant losses. Whether you’re a small business owner whose payment hasn’t arrived, a large corporation grappling with a supplier’s default, or an emerging enterprise seeking to understand your contractual rights, the principles governing these disputes are critical to grasp. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings a seasoned perspective to these matters, understanding that each commercial dispute requires a strategic and tailored approach rooted in deep legal knowledge.

Consequences and Stakes of a Breach

A breach of commercial contract in Maryland can lead to severe financial and operational repercussions, ranging from direct monetary losses and reputational damage to the need for costly and time-consuming litigation. Understanding these potential outcomes is crucial for any business engaged in contractual agreements within the state.

When a commercial contract is breached in Maryland, the immediate impact is often financial. The non-breaching party may suffer direct losses due to unfulfilled services, undelivered goods, or unpaid invoices. Beyond these direct costs, there can be significant indirect consequences. For instance, a delay in a supply chain due to a breached contract can lead to production halts, missed deadlines with other clients, and damage to your company’s own reputation. These downstream effects, known as consequential damages, can sometimes far outweigh the direct damages. The Maryland Code, Courts and Judicial Proceedings Article, particularly Title 11, addresses the types of damages that can be sought in civil actions, including those arising from contract disputes.

Types of Damages and Remedies in Maryland

Maryland law provides several remedies for a breach of commercial contract, aimed at compensating the injured party and enforcing the terms of the agreement:

• Compensatory Damages: These are the most common form of relief, designed to put the non-breaching party in the financial position they would have been in had the contract been fully performed. This can include direct losses and, in some cases, foreseeable consequential damages.
• Liquidated Damages: Some contracts include a clause specifying a predetermined amount of damages to be paid in the event of a breach. Maryland courts will enforce these clauses if the amount is a reasonable estimate of actual damages and not a penalty.
• Specific Performance: In rare cases, typically when monetary damages are inadequate (e.g., for unique goods or real estate), a court may order the breaching party to fulfill their contractual obligations exactly as agreed.
• Rescission and Restitution: Rescission voids the contract, treating it as if it never existed, and restitution aims to restore the parties to their pre-contractual positions by returning any benefits conferred.
• Injunctions: A court order requiring a party to perform or refrain from performing a specific act, often used to prevent further harm or maintain the status quo during a dispute.

The stakes are high. Beyond the tangible financial implications, engaging in litigation can divert valuable time and resources away from core business operations. Reputational damage, particularly for businesses that rely on trust and consistent delivery, can be long-lasting. Therefore, understanding your rights and strategically pursuing remedies under Maryland law is not merely about recovering losses; it’s about protecting the long-term viability and integrity of your business.

The Legal Process for Breach of Contract in Maryland

Navigating a breach of commercial contract in Maryland requires understanding a structured legal process, from initial assessment and negotiation to potential litigation in the state’s Circuit Courts and appellate levels. This process is designed to provide a framework for resolving disputes efficiently and effectively.

When a commercial contract breach occurs in Maryland, the journey toward resolution typically follows a defined path. My approach, refined over two decades, emphasizes meticulous preparation and strategic execution at each stage. Understanding this process is vital for any business contemplating legal action or defending against a claim.

Initial Assessment and Demand

The first step involves a comprehensive assessment of the alleged breach. This includes reviewing the contract terms, gathering all relevant documentation (emails, invoices, performance records), and evaluating the extent of the damages. Once the breach is confirmed, a formal demand letter is often issued. This letter, drafted by a seasoned attorney, details the breach, the damages incurred, and the proposed resolution, often setting a deadline for compliance. This initial demand can sometimes resolve the matter without further legal action.

Negotiation and Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR)

Should the demand letter not yield a resolution, the next phase often involves direct negotiation between the parties. My role here is to advocate fiercely for my client’s interests while exploring avenues for an amicable settlement. In Maryland, businesses frequently opt for Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) methods, such as mediation or arbitration. These processes, often less formal and less costly than litigation, can provide a more flexible environment for reaching mutually acceptable agreements. Many commercial contracts even include clauses mandating ADR before litigation.

Litigation in Maryland Courts

If ADR fails, or if the nature of the dispute demands it, litigation becomes the necessary course of action. In Maryland, commercial contract disputes typically fall under the jurisdiction of the **Maryland Circuit Courts**. These are the primary trial courts where civil cases, including complex business disputes, are heard. The litigation process involves several key stages:

• Filing a Complaint: The non-breaching party (plaintiff) files a formal complaint with the Circuit Court, outlining the facts of the breach, the legal basis for the claim, and the requested remedies.
• Service of Process: The defendant is formally notified of the lawsuit through service of process.
• Discovery: Both parties engage in discovery, a formal exchange of information. This includes interrogatories (written questions), requests for production of documents, and depositions (out-of-court sworn testimonies). This phase is crucial for gathering evidence to support your case.
• Motions: Throughout the litigation, parties may file various motions with the court, such as motions to dismiss, motions for summary judgment (asking the court to rule in their favor without a trial), or motions to compel discovery.
• Pre-Trial Conferences: The court may hold conferences to manage the case, discuss settlement possibilities, and prepare for trial.
• Trial: If no settlement is reached, the case proceeds to trial, where evidence is presented, and witnesses testify before a judge or jury.
• Judgment: After the trial, the court issues a judgment, ruling on the dispute and determining the appropriate remedies.

Appeals Process

A party dissatisfied with the Circuit Court’s judgment may have the right to appeal. Appeals in Maryland are first heard by the **Maryland Court of Special Appeals**, the intermediate appellate court. Decisions from the Court of Special Appeals can, in certain circumstances, be further appealed to the **Maryland Court of Appeals**, which is the state’s highest court. Our firm has extensive experience navigating these appellate levels, ensuring that all legal avenues are thoroughly explored to protect our clients’ interests.

Throughout this entire process, the role of experienced legal counsel is paramount. From meticulously crafting a demand letter to skillfully arguing in court, a seasoned Maryland commercial contract lawyer can significantly influence the outcome, safeguarding your business interests at every turn.

The SRIS Commercial Contract Enforcement Roadmap Tool

To empower businesses navigating the complexities of contract disputes, the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has developed the SRIS Commercial Contract Enforcement Roadmap. This practical, step-by-step guide is designed to help you organize your thoughts, gather crucial information, and understand the immediate actions necessary when facing a potential commercial contract breach in Maryland.

The initial moments after realizing a contract might be breached are critical. Panic can set in, but a methodical approach is key. This roadmap provides a structured way to assess your situation before seeking legal intervention, ensuring you arrive at your confidential case review well-prepared and informed. While this tool offers a valuable framework, it is not a substitute for seasoned legal counsel, but rather a preparatory guide to optimize your interaction with our team.

Steps for Navigating a Potential Commercial Contract Breach:

1. Review the Contract Thoroughly:
   • Locate the original, fully executed contract document.
   • Identify the specific clauses or terms alleged to have been breached.
   • Note any “notice of breach” requirements, cure periods, or dispute resolution clauses.
   • Understand the termination provisions and force majeure clauses.
2. Document the Breach:
   • Gather all evidence related to the breach: emails, text messages, invoices, delivery receipts, performance reports, photographs, video, and witness statements.
   • Create a chronological timeline of events leading up to and following the alleged breach.
   • Quantify, as best as possible, any financial damages already incurred or projected losses.
3. Assess the Impact and Damages:
   • Calculate direct financial losses (e.g., unpaid invoices, costs of replacement goods/services).
   • Consider indirect or consequential damages (e.g., lost profits, reputational harm, operational disruptions).
   • Determine if specific performance or injunctive relief might be more appropriate than monetary damages.
4. Consider Communication and Mitigation:
   • Evaluate whether a formal written notice of default or breach is required by the contract.
   • Assess any opportunities to mitigate your damages (e.g., finding alternative suppliers, attempting to recover goods). Maryland law generally requires parties to mitigate damages where reasonable.
   • Avoid making any new agreements or waivers that could prejudice your case without legal advice.
5. Seek Seasoned Legal Counsel:
   • Once you have completed the above steps, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for a confidential case review.
   • Be prepared to provide all documentation and your timeline.
   • Use this roadmap to guide your initial discussion and ensure no critical information is overlooked.

By systematically working through these steps using the SRIS Commercial Contract Enforcement Roadmap, you lay a strong foundation for your legal strategy, enabling our attorneys to more efficiently and effectively guide you toward a favorable resolution.

Legal Strategies and Defenses

Effectively navigating a commercial contract dispute in Maryland requires a comprehensive understanding of available legal strategies for the aggrieved party and potential defenses for the alleged breaching party. A proactive and well-reasoned approach, guided by seasoned legal counsel, is paramount.

Whether you are seeking to enforce a contract or defend against an accusation of breach, the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. employs a strategic framework honed over two decades to protect your interests. Our approach prioritizes both the legal viability and the business realities of your situation.

Strategies for the Non-Breaching Party

1. Formal Demand and Negotiation: Often the first and most cost-effective step. A strong, legally sound demand letter outlining the breach and potential legal consequences can often spur the breaching party into compliance or negotiation. Structured negotiations, sometimes involving a mediator, aim to reach a mutually acceptable settlement outside of court.
2. Specific Performance: As mentioned, if the subject matter of the contract is unique (e.g., a specific piece of real estate, a custom-manufactured product), the court may order the breaching party to fulfill their contractual obligations. This is often preferred when monetary damages simply cannot compensate for the loss of the specific item or service.
3. Claiming Damages: The primary strategy for most contract breaches is to seek monetary compensation for losses incurred. This involves meticulously calculating direct damages (e.g., lost profits, cost of cover) and, where applicable, consequential damages that were foreseeable at the time the contract was made.
4. Rescission and Restitution: If the breach is fundamental, a party might seek rescission, effectively canceling the contract and seeking restitution for any benefits conferred. This is akin to unwinding the agreement and returning both parties to their pre-contractual state.
5. Injunctive Relief: In situations where immediate action is required to prevent irreparable harm (e.g., a party threatening to sell unique assets that are part of the contract), a court may issue a temporary restraining order or preliminary injunction.

Common Defenses Against a Breach of Contract Claim

For those accused of breaching a commercial contract in Maryland, various legal defenses may be available:

1. No Valid Contract Exists: A fundamental defense is to argue that no legally enforceable contract was ever formed. This could be due to a lack of offer, acceptance, consideration, mutual assent, or a failure to meet the Statute of Frauds requirements (requiring certain contracts to be in writing).
2. Performance Excused:
   • Impossibility: Performance of the contract became objectively impossible due to unforeseen circumstances (e.g., destruction of unique subject matter).
   • Impracticability: Performance became unreasonably difficult or expensive due to unforeseen circumstances, making it commercially senseless.
   • Frustration of Purpose: The primary purpose of the contract became frustrated due to an unforeseen event, rendering the contract’s value useless.
   • Waiver or Estoppel: The non-breaching party waived their right to enforce a term or are “estopped” from doing so due to their conduct or statements.
3. Prior Material Breach by the Other Party: If the plaintiff materially breached the contract first, the defendant’s subsequent non-performance may be excused.
4. Mutual Mistake: Both parties made a significant mistake about a fundamental fact underlying the contract.
5. Duress or Undue Influence: The contract was entered into under coercion or improper pressure, making it unenforceable.
6. Fraud or Misrepresentation: The contract was induced by the other party’s fraudulent statements or material misrepresentations.
7. Unconscionability: The contract terms are so unfair or one-sided as to shock the conscience of the court, typically due to significant disparity in bargaining power.
8. Statute of Limitations: The lawsuit was filed after the legally prescribed time limit for bringing such a claim has expired. In Maryland, the general statute of limitations for contract actions is three years from the date the cause of action accrues, as per the Maryland Code, Courts and Judicial Proceedings Article, Title 5, Subtitle 1.
9. Failure to Mitigate Damages: The non-breaching party failed to take reasonable steps to minimize their losses after the breach occurred.

Identifying the most effective strategy or defense requires a thorough understanding of Maryland contract law, meticulous factual analysis, and the ability to anticipate opposing arguments. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings this strategic acumen to every commercial contract dispute.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Commercial Contract Disputes

In the heat of a commercial contract dispute, businesses often make common errors that can significantly undermine their position. Avoiding these pitfalls is as crucial as understanding your legal rights and requires a disciplined approach to documentation, communication, and legal engagement.

Having represented countless businesses in Maryland over the past two decades, I’ve observed patterns of mistakes that can complicate even the most straightforward breach of contract cases. Awareness and prevention are key.

1. Not Having a Clear, Written Contract: While some oral contracts are enforceable in Maryland, relying on them for significant commercial dealings is a grave error. Ambiguity breeds disputes. Ensure all key terms, responsibilities, and dispute resolution mechanisms are clearly documented in a written agreement.
2. Vague or Ambiguous Contractual Terms: Even with a written contract, poorly defined terms regarding deliverables, timelines, payment schedules, or conditions for completion can lead to misinterpretations and disputes. Precision in drafting is paramount.
3. Failing to Document the Breach Thoroughly: Many businesses fail to maintain comprehensive records of correspondence, performance issues, and attempts to resolve problems. Every email, memo, performance report, or communication related to the contract should be preserved. This documentation is your strongest evidence in court.
4. Delaying Legal Action: The statute of limitations for contract actions in Maryland is generally three years. Waiting too long can mean losing your right to sue, regardless of the merits of your claim. Prompt action also demonstrates seriousness and can prevent further damages.
5. Failing to Mitigate Damages: Maryland law requires a non-breaching party to take reasonable steps to minimize the losses incurred as a result of the breach. For example, if a supplier fails to deliver goods, you might be expected to find an alternative supplier promptly. Failing to do so can reduce the damages you can claim.
6. Communicating Recklessly or Admitting Fault: Once a dispute arises, all communications (written or verbal) can be used as evidence. Avoid emotional responses, making admissions of fault, or sending hostile communications. All formal communication should be carefully considered and, ideally, reviewed by your legal counsel.
7. Acting Without Legal Counsel: Attempting to negotiate, litigate, or even respond to a demand letter without the benefit of a seasoned Maryland commercial contract lawyer can lead to critical missteps. Legal strategies, understanding Maryland-specific laws, and navigating court procedures require professional guidance.
8. Ignoring Dispute Resolution Clauses: Many commercial contracts include mandatory mediation or arbitration clauses. Failing to engage in these processes when stipulated can lead to a court dismissing your case or penalizing your business.
9. Not Understanding Your Remedies: Businesses sometimes focus solely on recovering money, overlooking other valuable remedies like specific performance or injunctive relief which might be more beneficial in certain scenarios.
10. Overlooking Insurance Coverage: Some commercial liability policies may offer coverage for certain types of contract disputes or legal defense costs. Failing to check with your insurance provider can mean missing out on crucial support.

By being aware of these common mistakes and proactively seeking experienced legal advice, businesses in Maryland can significantly strengthen their position when faced with a commercial contract breach.

Glossary of Key Terms

Understanding the precise legal terminology is crucial for any business navigating a commercial contract dispute in Maryland. This glossary provides concise definitions of key terms you may encounter.

Breach of Contract

A failure, without legal excuse, to perform any promise that forms all or part of a contract.

Commercial Contract

A legally binding agreement between two or more business entities or individuals, typically involving the sale of goods, services, or other business transactions.

Damages

Monetary compensation awarded to the non-breaching party to compensate for losses incurred due to the breach. Can include compensatory, consequential, or in rare cases, punitive damages.

Specific Performance

A court order requiring the breaching party to fulfill the exact terms of the contract, typically granted when monetary damages are an inadequate remedy (e.g., for unique goods or property).

Mitigation of Damages

The legal principle requiring the non-breaching party to take reasonable steps to minimize their losses after a breach has occurred. Failure to mitigate can reduce the amount of damages recoverable.

Arbitration

A form of alternative dispute resolution (ADR) where a neutral third party (the arbitrator) hears both sides of a dispute and makes a binding decision, often stipulated in contract clauses.

Mediation

A form of alternative dispute resolution (ADR) where a neutral third party (the mediator) facilitates communication and negotiation between parties to help them reach a voluntary settlement.

Common Scenarios & Questions

Businesses in Maryland face a diverse range of commercial contract disputes. These scenarios illustrate common situations and provide insight into how legal principles apply to real-world challenges.

Scenario 1: Non-Payment for Services Rendered

A Maryland-based IT consulting firm completes a complex software integration project for a client. Despite successful completion and acceptance of the work, the client refuses to make the final payment as stipulated in their commercial service agreement, citing vague dissatisfaction without specific contractual breaches on the consultant’s part. The consultant has provided clear invoices and documented all project milestones.

Legal Question: What are the initial steps the IT consulting firm should take to recover the unpaid balance, and what legal remedies are available under Maryland law?

Answer: The firm should first issue a formal demand letter detailing the breach of the payment clause and the outstanding amount. If payment is not received, they can pursue litigation in Maryland Circuit Court, seeking compensatory damages for the unpaid services, potentially including interest and legal fees if the contract allows. Evidence of completed work and the client’s acceptance will be crucial.

Scenario 2: Supplier’s Failure to Deliver Goods

A Maryland manufacturing company contracts with a raw material supplier for a critical shipment. The supplier repeatedly delays delivery, eventually failing to provide the materials at all, causing the manufacturing company to halt production and incur significant penalties from its own customers. The contract explicitly outlined delivery dates and consequences for delay.

Legal Question: How can the manufacturing company recover losses due to the production halt and lost profits, and does the Maryland Uniform Commercial Code (UCC) apply?

Answer: The manufacturing company can sue for breach of contract, seeking compensatory damages (e.g., cost of finding replacement materials, lost profits from delayed production, penalties paid to customers). The Maryland UCC, specifically Title 2 on Sales, would govern this contract for the sale of goods, outlining remedies for non-delivery or repudiation, including “cover” (buying substitute goods) and recovery of consequential damages if foreseeable.

Scenario 3: Breach of a Non-Compete Clause

A key executive leaves a Maryland marketing agency to join a direct competitor, in apparent violation of a signed non-compete agreement that was part of their employment contract. The non-compete clause specifies geographic and time limitations.

Legal Question: What actions can the marketing agency take to enforce the non-compete clause, and what factors will a Maryland court consider regarding its enforceability?

Answer: The agency can seek an injunction to prevent the executive from working for the competitor and potentially pursue damages for lost business. Maryland courts generally enforce non-compete agreements if they are reasonable in scope (geographic area, duration, and type of activity restricted) and necessary to protect legitimate business interests (e.g., trade secrets, client lists). The court will balance the employer’s need for protection against the individual’s right to earn a living.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

As a seasoned Maryland commercial contract lawyer, I consistently address common questions from businesses navigating the complexities of contractual relationships. Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions.

Q1: What exactly constitutes a “breach” of commercial contract in Maryland?
A1: A breach occurs when one party fails to fulfill their obligations as specified in a legally binding commercial agreement. This can be a failure to perform a promised act, an action that makes performance impossible, or a repudiation of the contract before performance is due.

Q2: What are the typical remedies available for a breach of commercial contract in Maryland?
A2: Common remedies include monetary damages (compensatory damages to cover direct losses, and sometimes consequential damages for indirect losses), specific performance (ordering the breaching party to fulfill the contract), and rescission (canceling the contract and restoring parties to their original positions).

Q3: Is there a time limit to file a lawsuit for breach of contract in Maryland?
A3: Yes, this is known as the statute of limitations. In Maryland, the general statute of limitations for a breach of contract action is three years from the date the cause of action accrues, as per the Maryland Code, Courts and Judicial Proceedings Article, Title 5, Subtitle 1.

Q4: Can I sue for a breach if there was no written contract?
A4: While written contracts are always advisable, some oral contracts can be legally enforceable in Maryland. However, proving the terms of an oral contract can be significantly more challenging, relying heavily on witness testimony and circumstantial evidence. Certain contracts (e.g., for the sale of real estate or contracts that cannot be performed within one year) generally must be in writing under Maryland’s Statute of Frauds.

Q5: What is the role of the Maryland Uniform Commercial Code (UCC) in commercial contract breaches?
A5: The Maryland UCC (found in the Commercial Law Article of the Maryland Code) governs contracts for the sale of goods. It provides specific rules regarding formation, performance, and remedies for breach in such transactions, often differing from general common law contract principles.

Q6: Do I have to go to court to resolve a contract dispute in Maryland?
A6: Not necessarily. Many commercial contracts include alternative dispute resolution (ADR) clauses, requiring or encouraging mediation or arbitration before litigation. Even without such clauses, negotiation, mediation, or arbitration can be pursued voluntarily and are often more cost-effective and faster than litigation.

Q7: What is “mitigation of damages,” and how does it apply in Maryland?
A7: Mitigation of damages is a legal principle requiring the non-breaching party to take reasonable steps to minimize the losses they incur as a result of the breach. For example, if a supplier fails to deliver goods, the buyer should make a reasonable effort to find an alternative supplier. Failing to mitigate can reduce the amount of damages a court will award.

Q8: Can I recover legal fees if I win a breach of contract case in Maryland?
Q8: Generally, in Maryland, each party pays its own legal fees (“American Rule”) unless there is a specific provision in the contract allowing for the recovery of legal fees by the prevailing party, or if a statute explicitly authorizes it. This is why “attorney’s fees clauses” are common in commercial contracts.

Q9: What is the difference between direct and consequential damages?
Q9: Direct (or “compensatory”) damages are the losses that flow directly and immediately from the breach (e.g., the cost of repairing defective work, the unpaid contract amount). Consequential damages are indirect losses that result from the breach but are not direct. These are recoverable only if they were foreseeable at the time the contract was made (e.g., lost profits due to production stoppage caused by a supplier’s breach).

Q10: What should I do immediately if I suspect a breach of contract?
Q10: First, review the contract carefully. Second, gather and preserve all relevant documentation and communications. Third, contact an experienced Maryland commercial contract lawyer promptly for a confidential case review. Early legal intervention can make a significant difference in the outcome.

Q11: Are punitive damages available for breach of contract in Maryland?
Q11: Punitive damages, designed to punish wrongdoing rather than compensate for loss, are rarely awarded in breach of contract cases in Maryland. They are generally only available if the breach also constitutes an independent tort (e.g., fraud) where malicious intent can be proven.

Q12: How important are “force majeure” clauses in Maryland commercial contracts?
Q12: Force majeure clauses are highly important. They specify circumstances (like natural disasters, wars, or pandemics) that may excuse a party from performing their contractual obligations without being liable for breach. Their interpretation in Maryland depends on the specific language used and the foreseeability of the event.

Q13: What is “specific performance” and when is it granted in Maryland?
Q13: Specific performance is a court order compelling a party to fulfill their exact contractual obligations. It is typically granted only when monetary damages would be an inadequate remedy, such as in contracts involving unique goods, real estate, or other one-of-a-kind assets where a substitute cannot be readily purchased.

Q14: Can a commercial contract be terminated for convenience in Maryland?
Q14: Only if the contract explicitly includes a “termination for convenience” clause. Without such a clause, a party cannot unilaterally terminate the contract without being in breach, unless there’s a material breach by the other party or mutual agreement.

Q15: What role do Maryland Circuit Courts play in commercial contract disputes?
Q15: Maryland Circuit Courts are the primary trial courts where commercial contract disputes, especially those involving significant financial claims or complex issues, are litigated. They have broad jurisdiction over civil cases and are where evidence is presented, trials are held, and judgments are rendered.

Protect Your Business: Contact a Seasoned Maryland Commercial Contract Lawyer

In the dynamic world of business, certainty is a precious commodity, and contracts are designed to provide it. When that certainty is shattered by a breach, the path forward can seem daunting. With over 20 years of experience, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. stands ready to provide the unwavering legal representation your business deserves. We understand the nuances of Maryland commercial law and are committed to protecting your interests, whether through negotiation, mediation, or aggressive litigation. Do not let a breach of contract jeopardize your business’s future. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. today at 888-437-7747 for a confidential case review and strategic counsel.

Disclaimer: This article provides general information about Maryland commercial contract law and is not intended as legal advice. The law is complex and constantly evolving, and its application varies depending on the specific facts and circumstances of each case. For advice on your specific legal situation, you should consult with a qualified attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. Nothing in this article creates an attorney-client relationship.