Verbal Agreement Broken: What to Do When a Promise is Broken

In the business world, verbal agreements or commitments hold a lot of weight, but what happens when a promise is broken? It can be a frustrating experience, but knowing what steps to take can help you resolve the issue quickly and effectively.

First and foremost, it is essential to understand that verbal agreements are legally binding, just like written agreements. However, the challenge lies in proving the agreement existed and what the terms were. To protect yourself, it’s always best to get any agreement in writing, but if you find yourself in a verbal agreement that’s been broken, there are a few steps you can take.

1. Communicate

The first step when a verbal agreement has been broken is to communicate with the other party. It’s possible that they may have simply forgotten or misunderstood the terms of the agreement. Start by reminding them of the agreement and then calmly explain how they’ve failed to meet their end of the deal.

In some cases, the other party may be willing to make amends, so keeping communication open and respectful can help you come to a resolution.

2. Document

If communication doesn’t resolve the issue, it’s essential to start documenting everything. Start by writing down the details of the agreement, including who said what, when it was agreed upon, and what the terms were. Having this information in writing can help you provide evidence if legal action becomes necessary.

Additionally, document any communication you’ve had with the other party, including emails, phone calls, and text messages. This documentation can help demonstrate that you’ve made a good faith effort to resolve the issue.

3. Seek Legal Advice

If the other party is unwilling to resolve the issue or makes it clear they have no intention of fulfilling their end of the agreement, it may be time to seek legal advice. An attorney will be able to assess your situation and advise you on the legal options available to you.

Depending on the specifics of your situation, you may be able to take legal action, such as filing a lawsuit for breach of contract. However, before taking any legal action, it’s important to consider the cost and time involved in pursuing legal action.

4. Move On

In some cases, it may not be worth pursuing legal action or even continuing the business relationship. While it can be frustrating to have a verbal agreement broken, it’s important to remember that not all business relationships are going to work out.

If you decide to move on, make sure to end the business relationship on a professional note. This means being respectful and courteous and fulfilling any remaining obligations you have.

Conclusion

Having a verbal agreement broken can be frustrating and stressful, but it doesn’t have to be the end of the world. By communicating, documenting, seeking legal advice, and moving on if necessary, you can resolve the issue and move forward with your business. Remember, the key is to protect yourself by always getting any agreement in writing.