The nature and intent of an action for tortious interference with an advantageous business relationship can be defined as an action arising from conduct that is intentional and direct. That is, there can be no cause of action for negligent interference with a business relationship because the defendant must have acted with intent to interfere with the plaintiff's business relationship. However, a prima facie case of tortious interference with a business relationship does not necessarily require a plaintiff to prove that the defendant intended to secure a business advantage. Rather, a defendant who damages a plaintiff's business relationships by using malice as his or her motive instead of greed to damage the plaintiff, will nonetheless be held liable. Nevertheless, a claim of tortious interference with an advantageous business relationship may succeed, even where the defendant's motive is not purely malicious, if improper methods were used.

However, a cause of action for tortious interference with a business relationship does not exist against a defendant who is a party to the business relationship allegedly interfered with. Accordingly, to be liable for interference with an advantageous business relationship, the interfering party must be a disinterested third party with regard to the plaintiff's business relationship involved in the action. A defendant is not considered a stranger to a business relationship if the defendant has any beneficial or economic interest in, or control over, that relationship.

A cause of action for tortious interference with advantageous business relationship may have many complex issues. Therefore, you should consult with an experienced West Palm Beach business lawyer. Call Sharmin & Sharmin P.A. at 1-800-74-TRIAL.