When it comes to the complexities of the legal world, barratry may be an unfamiliar concept to most business professionals. Simply put, barratry is when an individual or business engages in repeated, illegal, or unethical activities for their own financial gain. Common examples of barratry include those who sue multiple times for the same cause, use scare tactics to push people into an agreement, or solicit clients for unnecessary services.
Barratry can cause immense financial damage and should be avoided at all costs. The most important piece of advice is to avoid putting oneself in a position to engage in barratry in the first place. Do not rush into any agreement without fully understanding the risks and implications. Take the time to read through contracts and documents carefully and double check that they are legally binding and in line with your firm’s interests and goals.
How to Spot and Avoid Barratry Scams
Another important tip is to be aware of how barratry scams work. If you are approached by someone offering a deal that sounds too good to be true, take it as a warning sign. Be wary of anyone who attempts to confuse, threaten, or push you into an agreement without allowing plenty of time to examine it. Take caution if you are contacted and aggressively pressured into buying even before you have read the contract.
If you think the person or business is engaging in barratry, report them to relevant authorities such as the police or Better Business Bureau. It is also possible to file a civil suit against them. Document all emails, conversations, and other activities related to the transaction for evidence should you need to take legal action.
Take Steps to Prevent Barratry and Protect Your Business
Ultimately, the best way to protect your business from barratry is to thoroughly vet vendors and clients and ensure they have a stellar reputation. Engaging in barratry fraud can have serious consequences, from reputational damage to financial loss. As a business professional, it is important to be aware of how barratry works, how to spot it and take the necessary steps to prevent it.