The 7-Day Danger Zone: What to Do Immediately After a Breach

The Critical First Week Moves That Can Make or Break Your Case

The contract was breached. They didn’t pay. They missed a deadline. They walked away.

Now the clock is ticking — and the first 7 days can determine whether you get paid or get played.

Waiting “to see what happens” is the single biggest mistake business owners make after a breach. Here’s what to do instead — immediately.

📌 Day 1–2: Lock Down the Evidence

• Save every communication: Emails, texts, call logs, Slack messages — screenshot them if needed.
• Download documents: Invoices, contracts, proposals, signed change orders, payment history.
• Note the breach: Write a simple internal memo or email-to-self describing what happened.

📌 Day 3–4: Send Formal Notice

Even if you’ve mentioned it verbally or casually, you must:

• Send a written notice of breach via email + certified mail
• Include the contract reference, what was breached, and a deadline to cure (if appropriate)
• Keep it factual — no emotional rants

Bonus: If your contract has notice requirements, this step preserves your right to enforce it later.

📌 Day 5–6: Stop Waiving Your Rights

Every time you keep working, keep delivering, or keep accepting late payments, you might be silently waiving the breach.

• Pause performance if possible (check your contract first)
• Communicate that you're acting under protest or reserving rights
• Do not accept new terms unless in writing

📌 Day 7: Call a Business Litigation Attorney

This isn’t about rushing to sue. It’s about protecting your position while options are still open.

A skilled attorney will help you:

• Evaluate the strength of your claim
• Craft a legally valid demand letter
• Preserve leverage while exploring resolution

The Bottom Line

The first week after a breach is not the time to be passive.

It’s the time to act strategically, preserve your legal position, and set yourself up for recovery — or a courtroom win if needed.

If your contract has been breached, don’t wait. Book a 15-minute paid consultation with JDE Law Firm, PLLC and take control of the situation while it still favors you.

🔗 Schedule a Consultation