Vexatious litigation is the term used to describe legal proceedings where one party attempts to harass, annoy, or burden the other party – without any reasonable cause. These types of lawsuits are usually frivolous or malicious in nature and often end up with the court dismissing the case or ordering the filing party to pay for the defendant’s legal fees.
The most common example of vexatious litigation occurs when someone files a lawsuit for an amount of money that is too small or insignificant to be worth the time and money that goes into litigating it. This kind of lawsuit is usually used as a means of harassing or intimidating the defendant, rather than to actually receive money or justice.
How Businesses Should Respond to Vexatious Litigation
It is important for businesses to take steps to protect themselves from vexatious litigation. The first step is to ensure that any legal disputes that arise are handled in a timely manner. If a business is served with a lawsuit or demand letter, the best response is to seek legal representation and make sure that all deadlines are met.
When it comes to vexatious litigation, businesses should also be aware of any potential warning signs and not take any action that could be interpreted as an admission of guilt or liability. If a case does move forward, it is important to remember that the court has the power to award costs and damages if it determines that the lawsuit is frivolous or malicious.
The Benefits of Speaking With a Lawyer
It is always a good idea to speak with a lawyer before responding to a vexatious lawsuit. An experienced lawyer can provide guidance on the best approach to take, as well as advice on how to deal with any potential warnings signs and potential pitfalls. A lawyer can also provide guidance on whether a case has enough merit to be pursued, and can help businesses determine whether it is worth the time and expense to litigate it.
Vexatious litigation can be a costly and time-consuming process, so it is important for businesses to be aware of their rights and how to protect themselves. With the right strategy in place, businesses can protect themselves from being unfairly targeted and ensure any legal disputes are resolved quickly and effectively.