LAWCRESTContract disputes lawyer in Mississauga
A broken agreement can put your money, your business or your home at risk. Lawcrest helps individuals and businesses across Mississauga and the GTA resolve contract disputes with clear advice, practical strategy and firm representation.
Time limits apply
In Ontario, most contract claims must be started within two years of when you knew, or should have known, about the problem. Speak to a lawyer early to protect your rights.
416-830-3369What is a contract dispute?
A contract dispute arises when one party says the other has not done what an agreement requires, or the parties disagree about what the agreement means. It can involve a signed document, an email exchange, or an agreement made verbally and confirmed in writing.
Disputes are stressful, but most can be resolved without a long court fight when they are handled early and strategically.
We act for both sides of contract disputes. Whether you are the one claiming money or performance, or the one defending a claim, our approach is the same: understand the documents, assess the strengths and risks honestly, and pursue the most practical route to a good outcome.
- IndividualsHome renovations, vehicle and equipment sales, personal loans, service agreements.
- Small and medium businessesSupply agreements, unpaid invoices, partnership and vendor disputes.
- Plaintiffs and defendantsWe help you pursue a claim or defend one with the same care.
Types of contract disputes we handle
If your situation is not listed, call us. Many disputes overlap, and we will tell you plainly whether we can help.
Breach of contract
The other party failed to perform, performed late, or delivered something different from what was agreed.
Unpaid invoices and debts
Customers or clients who will not pay for goods delivered or services completed.
Construction and renovation
Deficient work, delays, deposits, change orders and contractor payment disputes.
Supply and services
Disputes with suppliers, vendors, distributors and service providers over quality, delivery or price.
Partnership and shareholder
Disagreements between business owners about obligations, buyouts or how the agreement works.
Real estate agreements
Failed closings, deposits, conditions and disputes arising from agreements of purchase and sale.
Misrepresentation
You entered a contract because of false or misleading statements made by the other party.
Interpretation and terms
Unclear wording, penalty and termination clauses, limits on liability and disputed obligations.
When should you speak to a lawyer?
The sooner you get advice, the more options you usually have. Contact us if any of these sound familiar.
- The other party has stopped performingWork has stopped, goods have not arrived, or payments are being missed.
- You have received a demand letter or claimDeadlines for responding can be short, so do not ignore it.
- Someone wants to terminate the contractEnding an agreement the wrong way can create new liability.
- You are owed money and are being avoidedA formal demand from a law firm often prompts a response.
- You are about to sign or change a contractPrevention is cheaper than a dispute.
Your options for resolving a dispute
There is more than one path. We explain each, including the likely cost and time, so you can choose with confidence.
Negotiation and demand letterOften the first step
A clear letter setting out your position and what you want. Many disputes settle at this stage, quickly and at the lowest cost, and a settlement can be recorded in a written agreement.
MediationConfidential and flexible
A neutral mediator helps both sides reach a voluntary agreement. It is usually faster and cheaper than a trial and keeps the relationship and the details out of the public record.
ArbitrationIf your contract requires it
Some contracts require disputes to go to a private arbitrator instead of court. We review your agreement to see whether a clause applies and how it affects your rights.
Small Claims CourtClaims up to $50,000
A simpler court process for smaller monetary claims, where parties may represent themselves or use a lawyer. We can advise whether it is the right forum and prepare you for it.
Ontario Superior Court of JusticeLarger or more complex claims
For higher-value or complicated disputes. Claims up to $200,000 may follow a streamlined simplified procedure. We manage pleadings, evidence, motions and trial.
How we work with you
A clear process, with no surprises about where your matter stands.
Consultation
You tell us what happened. We listen, ask the right questions and explain where you stand in plain language.
Document review
We read the contract, emails, invoices and any notices to identify the strengths and weaknesses of your position.
Strategy and costs
We outline your options, the likely timeline and what each path may cost, before you decide how to proceed.
Demand and negotiation
We send or respond to formal letters and negotiate on your behalf, aiming for an early, sensible resolution.
Mediation or proceedings
If needed, we take your matter to mediation, arbitration or court and keep you informed at every stage.
Resolution and enforcement
We finalize the settlement or judgment and help you enforce it so the outcome is actually delivered.
What you may be able to recover
The remedies available depend on the facts, the contract and the law. We will give you an honest view of what is realistic in your case.
- DamagesCompensation for the financial loss caused by the breach.
- Specific performanceIn some cases, a court order requiring the other party to carry out the contract.
- RescissionCancelling the contract and returning the parties to their earlier positions, for example after misrepresentation.
- InjunctionsOrders to stop a party from doing something that breaches the agreement.
- Interest and costsInterest on money owed and a contribution toward legal costs may be available.
Do not wait: time limits apply
Under Ontario's Limitations Act, 2002, a claim generally must be started within two years of the day you discovered, or reasonably should have discovered, the problem. There is also an overall outer limit of fifteen years in most cases.
Your contract may contain its own notice periods or deadlines, and some situations have special rules. Missing a deadline can end your claim, so get advice as soon as a dispute arises.
What to bring to your consultation
Do not worry if you do not have everything. Bring what you can, and we will tell you what else is useful.
- The contract and any amendments
- Emails, texts and letters with the other party
- Invoices, receipts and proof of payment
- Photos, reports or quotes showing the problem
- Any demand letter, notice or court document
- A short timeline of what happened and when
Why clients choose Lawcrest
You are trusting us with something that matters. This is how we earn that trust.
Plain-language advice
No jargon. You understand each step and each choice before we act.
Cost clarity
We discuss fees at the start so you can decide with full information.
Practical focus
We aim for the best result at a sensible cost, not a fight for its own sake.
Confidential
What you tell us is protected by solicitor-client privilege.
Responsive
Your questions get answers, and you hear from us as your matter moves.
Local and accessible
Meet us at our Matheson Blvd office in Mississauga, or arrange a call.
Regulated lawyers
Lawcrest is a professional corporation regulated by the Law Society of Ontario.
Both sides covered
We act for those making a claim and those defending one.
Frequently asked questions
Still not sure? Call 416-830-3369 and we will talk it through.
Do I need a written contract to make a claim?
Not always. Verbal agreements can be enforceable, although they are harder to prove. Emails, texts, invoices and payments can all help show what was agreed.
How long does a contract dispute take?
It varies. Some settle in weeks after a demand letter. Court proceedings can take many months or longer. We give you a realistic timeline once we have reviewed your documents.
How much will it cost?
Costs depend on the amount in dispute, the complexity and how far the matter goes. We discuss fees and options at the start so you can make an informed decision.
Should I stop performing if the other side breached?
Be careful. Stopping at the wrong time can put you in breach. Get advice before ending the contract or withholding payment.
I received a statement of claim. What now?
Deadlines to respond are short and missing them can lead to judgment against you. Contact us immediately and bring the documents you received.
Can we settle without going to court?
Often yes. Negotiation and mediation resolve many disputes, and we will pursue settlement where it serves your interests.
What is the difference between Small Claims Court and Superior Court?
Small Claims Court deals with monetary claims up to $50,000 using a simpler process. Larger or more complex claims go to the Superior Court of Justice.
Is my information confidential?
Yes. Your communications with us are protected by solicitor-client privilege.
Testimonials
They made a complicated legal matter feel understandable. We always knew what was happening, why it mattered and what came next.
Carolean
Worker
We always knew what was happening, why it mattered and what came next. They made a complicated legal matter feel understandable.
Elena
Founder of a company
Lawcrest
@2026