What is a tortious interference with contractual relations?
Tortious interference with contractual relations (also known as intentional interference with contractual relations) is a legal concept that is part of North Carolina’s Unfair Competition Law. It means that when one party deliberately interferes with the ability of another party to perform a contractual obligation, it is a tort. This interference can take the form of either a direct act or an indirect one. Direct act of interference means that the interfering party takes some specific action that is intended to impede the performance of a contract. This could include preventing another party from completing their obligations, or making it more difficult for them to fulfill their obligations. Indirect interference occurs when a party interferes with a contract by making a false statement or a promise that they have no intention of fulfilling. This could include deliberately making a false statement or a promise to a party that is a party to the contract, with the intention of persuading them to break the contract. Tortious interference with contractual relations can have serious consequences for the party that is found liable for the interference. This can include awarding the injured party damages, compensatory damages, punitive damages, and sometimes even an injunction. It’s important to note that this tort does not need to be intentional, although it is usually considered to be an intentional tort. If a party can prove that the tort was committed, it can lead to liability for the interfering party, regardless of the their intent.
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