Introduction

Recovering unpaid commissions can be a significant challenge for commercial brokers, but with the right legal strategy, it's possible to recover what’s rightfully owed. In this case study, I’ll share how I helped a commercial broker secure over $1M in unpaid commissions after the landlord refused to honor a signed agreement.

Background

My client, a commercial broker, had signed a commission agreement with a commercial landlord for securing a high-quality tenant for one of their properties. According to the agreement, the landlord was required to pay the broker a commission in two installments. Despite fulfilling his end of the bargain by bringing in a solid tenant, the landlord repeatedly refused to pay the commissions owed. This refusal led to two separate lawsuits for each of the installments.

The Legal Challenge

This case wasn’t straightforward. The landlord attempted to avoid paying the commissions, disputing the terms of the commission agreement. With the outstanding amounts being significant, my client needed to take swift legal action. The case was complicated further by delays and the landlord’s attempts to use procedural defenses to evade payment.

The Solution

After filing the lawsuits, I moved quickly to file a Motion for Summary Judgment after the landlord had served their answer. This strategic move allowed us to avoid prolonged litigation, putting pressure on the landlord to settle. In the motion, I demonstrated that the landlord had no legal basis for withholding payment and that my client was entitled to both the commissions and the associated interest and legal fees.

With compelling legal arguments and evidence supporting my client’s position, the court ruled in our favor. The landlord was required to pay the full amount owed, along with interest and legal fees, securing my client’s financial interests.

Outcome

The outcome of this case was a complete victory for my client. Not only did they recover the full commission amount, but they also received the interest and legal fees incurred throughout the process. The case highlighted the importance of having a legally enforceable commission agreement and the power of a well-executed legal strategy.

Conclusion

This case is a great example of how having the right legal representation can ensure that businesses and professionals are paid for the work they do. If you’re facing a similar situation—whether it's unpaid commissions, breach of contract, or another commercial dispute—I'm here to help.

With a clear legal strategy, you can recover what you’re owed and ensure that your business interests are protected.

Contact Me

If you're a commercial broker or business owner facing unpaid commissions or other contract disputes, don’t hesitate to reach out. Contact me today for a consultation, and let's discuss how I can help you recover what you're owed.