Business disputes disrupt operations, strain relationships, and affect your bottom line. Whether you’re dealing with a contract dispute or another issue, knowing your rights and options under the law makes a difference.
The attorneys at Kennelly Business Law work with businesses across Fargo–Moorhead, Valley City, Wahpeton, Grand Forks, and northern Minnesota in a broad range of business litigation cases. Our approach focuses on understanding your business and developing a plan that addresses your goals and challenges. Thanks to our lawyers’ deep roots in the local business community and experience in North Dakota and Minnesota courts, we can efficiently guide you through the legal process.
Whether you’re considering litigation or exploring alternatives like negotiation or mediation, let us help you make informed decisions for your unique company. Contact Kennelly Business Law today to speak with our business litigation attorneys about the best ways to protect your company and resolve disputes.
Business Litigation Claims We Handle in Fargo–Moorhead and Beyond
Business disputes can grow out of everyday operations just as often as unusual events—and sometimes, it’s even more likely. The attorneys at Kennelly Business Law represent business owners on both sides of litigation, whether you’re pursuing a claim or responding to one. Some of our most common litigation matters include:
- Breach of contract disputes: When one party fails to perform under a written or oral agreement, we can help you resolve the issue. Common issues include payment, scope of work, deadlines, and termination rights. These cases can involve anything from service agreements or supply contracts to commercial leases and construction contracts. We fight for your interests under North Dakota or Minnesota contract law to find an appropriate, fair remedy.
- Partnership, shareholder, and LLC disputes: Conflicts between owners are more common than you might think, but each disagreement disrupts your operations and long-term planning. We often handle cases where key players have disagreements over management authority, profit distribution, and ownership interests. Our lawyers can also handle claims for alleged breaches of fiduciary duties.
- Business torts and fraud claims: Some claims involve wrongful conduct rather than contract issues. These cases often come up when there has been fraud or misrepresentation and interference with business relationships, causing financial harm. Both North Dakota and Minnesota law allows businesses to pursue damages for losses.
- Employment and non-compete disputes: Cases involving current or former employees and contractors can deeply affect client relationships and jeopardize your confidential information. Whether your claim involves alleged breaches of employment agreements, disputes over restrictive covenants, or misuse of trade secrets, our experienced attorneys can advocate for your rights and preferred remedies under the law.
- Creditor rights and debt collection: Customers or business partners sometimes fail to pay, and in serious cases, litigation may be necessary to recover outstanding balances. Our attorneys are experienced in filing collection actions and pursuing garnishment and lien remedies under the law. If an issue arises after the case is settled, we can also handle enforcement actions on your behalf.
If you’re interested in finding out whether you have a claim and what your legal options may be, contact the business litigation lawyers at Kennelly Business Law.
What to Expect from the Business Litigation Process
Business litigation follows a structured process under state law, though every case looks different depending on the dispute and the parties involved. Our attorneys can guide you through practical decision-making throughout the process:
- Pre-litigation evaluation and strategy: Many business disagreements begin long before a lawsuit is filed—and in some cases, issues can be resolved without litigation if you have a good early strategy. This stage involves reviewing the relevant evidence to assess claims and identify legal risks. We address disputes through negotiation or demand letters without formal litigation whenever possible, which can save time and expense.
- Filing a lawsuit and responding to claims: If litigation is necessary, we file a complaint in the appropriate court or respond to one that’s already been served. Most business disputes are filed in district court, which has jurisdiction over civil matters.
- Discovery and case development: Discovery allows both sides to exchange information and gather evidence. This phase may include document requests, written questions, and depositions. Business litigation often involves significant volumes of business records and digital evidence. However, this evidence helps us assess how strong the claim is and look for ways to negotiate outside of the courtroom.
- Alternative dispute resolution: Courts often encourage parties to explore mediation and arbitration, which offer more control over timing and costs. Generally, the parties and counsel work with a third-party mediator or arbitrator to reach a negotiated outcome.
- Motions, trial, and judgment: Some cases are resolved through pretrial motions that narrow or dispose of claims, in whole or in part. If a case proceeds to trial, we’ll present a persuasive case to a judge or jury. This is followed by a decision and judgment. After judgment, you may need additional legal assistance to enforce or challenge the outcome—often collection efforts or post-trial motions.
Industries We Serve in Fargo–Moorhead and Beyond
The same type of business litigation claim can look quite different, depending on how your business operates and the regulations that apply to your industry. The lawyers at Kennelly Business Law work with business owners to tailor our litigation strategies for your industry and your company’s structure, risk profile, and goals. Our firm regularly represents:
Whichever industry you’re in, our dedicated business litigation lawyers will work to understand your needs, then aggressively advocate for your unique interests.
Why Choose Kennelly Business Law for Business Litigation Claims?
Business litigation requires a practical understanding of how the law and contracts affect your daily operations, financial relationships, and long-term planning. Kennelly Business Law resolves disagreements as efficiently as possible, thanks to a deep understanding of the law and major industries.
Our team has significant experience in business law and commercial litigation. All current attorneys have been recognized by Super Lawyers, reflecting consistent peer recognition for their work in North Dakota. Chris Kennelly has been selected for the North Dakota Super Lawyers list from 2023 through 2025 and holds an AV rating from Martindale-Hubbell. His previous background as a trained CPA provides valuable insight when disputes involve financial records, valuation issues, or complex transactions. Jeff Gunkelman and Ben Williams have also been named Rising Stars, with recognition spanning multiple years.
Finally, local presence matters. With a primary office in Fargo and full-time offices in Valley City and Wahpeton, we stay closely connected to the communities we serve. Above all, we explain your legal options in plain language, help you weigh costs and benefits at each stage, and adjust our strategy whenever circumstances change. We help you make informed decisions that support your company’s continued operation and stability.
Find the Right Solution for Your Business Litigation Needs
Business disputes don’t resolve themselves, and waiting too long can limit your options. Whether you’re dealing with a contract issue, an ownership conflict, or another matter, timely legal guidance is key. The attorneys at Kennelly Business Law work with business owners across Fargo–Moorhead, eastern North Dakota, and northern Minnesota to evaluate disputes and develop practical strategies based on the facts and applicable statutes.
Contact Kennelly Business Law today for a consultation. With offices in Fargo, Valley City, and Wahpeton, we’re positioned to help you address business litigation issues wherever your business operates in the region.
