Are there any defenses to a tortious interference with contractual relations claim?

In Massachusetts, there are several potential defenses to a tortious interference with contractual relations claim. First, it is important to recognize that a tortious interference with contractual relations claim involves the interference of one party’s existing and prospective contractual relationships with another party. Under Massachusetts Unfair Competition Law, the defending party must show that their actions constitute a legitimate business interest. This is typically done through demonstrating that the defendant acted in a reasonable manner while engaging in the interference. Secondly, a defendant may successfully defend against a tortious interference with contractual relations claim by showing that their actions were privileged or justified. This may be established by showing that the defendant was a competitor whose actions were necessary for their own business. As an example, if one company was unfairly preventing another from participating in a bidding process, the latter may interfere with the former’s contract to protect its own legitimate interests. Finally, a defendant may also be able to defend against a tortious interference with contractual relations claim by showing that their actions were in compliance with the law, even though they did result in harm to the plaintiff. This is because the law always protects individuals who are engaging in lawful activities, even when they result in damage to another. For instance, if an individual was acting in accordance with antitrust laws, then the plaintiff would be unable to make a successful tortious interference claim against the defendant.

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Are there any defenses to a tortious interference with contractual relations claim?

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