You initially started your business with a partner. The two of you, working together, were able to find a significant level of success.
But then your business partner left the company without warning. This has significantly harmed the business and your income. You believe they have abandoned the company, and you want to know if it is possible to sue.
Did they have a partnership agreement?
The first thing to consider is whether there was an official agreement that the two of you signed, defining your roles and duties within the business. If so, this contract may also state the reasons that a partner can leave the company and the steps they need to take to do so. If your partner simply left without warning, thus violating this contract, you may be able to sue them.
Was it for their own personal gain?
You may also be able to argue that they had a fiduciary duty to put the company first and that they violated that by acting in a way that prioritized their own financial gain. For example, perhaps they left the business and are now using your trade secrets to start their own company—without your involvement as a partner. Not only have they abandoned your partnership, but they have created competition that could put you out of business.
Similarly, you may allege that they stole business funds or assets when they abandoned the partnership. If so, you may be able to sue on the grounds of embezzlement or theft.
Your legal options
As you can see, this is a complex situation, and your options will depend on a variety of different factors. Just be sure you know what legal steps to take.
