What to Do If Your Massachusetts Business Is Served with a Lawsuit

For many business owners, receiving notice of a lawsuit is one of the most stressful experiences imaginable. Whether it involves a contract dispute, employment issue, or commercial disagreement, being sued is overwhelming. Taking the right steps early on can protect your rights, minimize financial risk, and set the stage for a strong defense.

At Long Hagan Huff-Harris, we regularly represent Massachusetts businesses in all types of business litigation. Here’s what you should do if your company is served.

1. Do Not Ignore the Lawsuit

Ignoring a summons or complaint won’t make it go away. Failing to respond within the required timeframe could result in a default judgment against your business—meaning the other party may win automatically.

Tip: In Massachusetts, response deadlines are strict. Contact a business litigation attorney as soon as possible to avoid missing critical deadlines.

2. Carefully Review the Documents

When you are served, you will typically receive a summons and a complaint. The summons tells you how long you have to respond. The complaint explains the claims being made against your business.

Tip: Make note of any deadlines immediately. Share the documents with your attorney so they can evaluate the claims.

3. Contact a Business Litigation Attorney

Business disputes can be complicated, involving contracts, partnerships, or regulatory issues. An experienced Massachusetts business litigation lawyer will:

• Assess the strength of the claims against you

• Determine the appropriate response strategy

• Ensure all filings meet court requirements

• Represent your company in negotiations or court proceedings

4. Preserve Relevant Records

Courts take the preservation of evidence seriously. Destroying or failing to keep relevant records can hurt your defense.

Tip: Save all contracts, emails, invoices, and communications related to the dispute. Your attorney will advise you on what is most important.

5. Explore Settlement Options

Not every case needs to go to trial. Settlement negotiations, mediation, or arbitration may save time and money while still protecting your business interests.

Tip: A skilled business litigation attorney in Massachusetts can help determine when settlement makes sense and negotiate favorable terms.

6. Stay Focused on Running Your Business

While legal disputes require attention, they shouldn’t consume all of your energy. By entrusting your case to an experienced attorney, you can continue to focus on daily operations while your legal team protects your business.

Protecting Your Business with Experienced Legal Counsel

At Long Hagan Huff-Harris, we understand the challenges business owners face when confronted with litigation. Our attorneys provide strong, strategic representation to safeguard your company and resolve disputes effectively. If your business has been served with a lawsuit in Massachusetts, don’t wait—contact our team to protect your rights and your future.