Q: I just started my own company and I have found out my old employer is telling my vendors if they sell to me he will
pull his business from them. Basically threatening them. Is this legal, or do I have legal action against him.
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A:
If your former employer engaged in wrongful acts (misrepresentation, libel), you may have a valid claim for interference with prospective economic relations
A claim for interference with prospective economic relations requires the plaintiff to prove:
1) The plaintiff and a third party were in an economic relationship that probably would have resulted in an economic benefit to the plaintiff
2) The Defendant knew of the relationship between the plaintiff and the third party
3) Defendant intended to disrupt the relationship
4) Defendant engaged in wrongful acts (Some examples of a wrongful act—fraud, misrepresentation, libel, violation of a statute)
5) The relationship was actually disrupted
6) Plaintiff suffered economic harm
7) The defendant’s wrongful conduct was a substantial factor in causing the plaintiff’s harm
Please note that this answer does not create an attorney-client relationship. If you seek further guidance with your issue, I suggest you contact an attorney who will learn more facts about your situation and properly advise you on how to proceed.
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