litigate = resolve
Simply Reliable. Ps. 27:1
FREE 15-MINUTE CALL WITH OUR ATTORNEY
(202) 725-0523
(415) 237-3938
FREE 15-MINUTE CALL WITH OUR ATTORNEY
(202) 725-0523
(415) 237-3938
BUSINESS DISPUTES ARE NOT UNUSUAL ...
- 43%of small businesses are
THREATENED WITH A LAWSUIT
every year - 12 millionof contract lawsuits
FILED EVERY YEAR
AGAINST SMALL BUSINESSES - 90%of small businesses
EXPERIENCE A LAWSUIT
at some point in their lifespan
... but Each problem has its optimal solution
we design and implement your solution
leveraging our experience and knowledge of the dispute resolution system
contract disputes
breach of warranties
non-payment issues
demands to indemnify
termination and breach
commercial property evictions
franchising disputes
non-payment issues
demands to indemnify
termination and breach
commercial property evictions
franchising disputes
partnership disputes
ownership disputes
distribution of assets
misappropriation of funds
unfair competition
exit & dissolution
distribution of assets
misappropriation of funds
unfair competition
exit & dissolution
business wrongdoings
fraud and deceit
defamation and trade libel
conversion
unfair business practices
interference with contracts
defamation and trade libel
conversion
unfair business practices
interference with contracts
asset protection
trademark disputes
trade secrets
copyright infringement
reputation and goodwill
trade secrets
copyright infringement
reputation and goodwill
what to expect
all timelines are approximate and do not constitute a promise
all timelines are approximate and do not constitute a promise
We will:
- review available information
- thoroughly investigate relevant information
- assess information for accuracy and reliability
- analyze information for potential claims and defenses
Timeline: 1 - 6 weeks +
- review available information
- thoroughly investigate relevant information
- assess information for accuracy and reliability
- analyze information for potential claims and defenses
Timeline: 1 - 6 weeks +
We will discuss with you
- your priorities and goals
- your timeline and resources
- available options and their pros and cons
- suggestions of the most optimal strategy
Timeline: 1 - 6 weeks +
- your priorities and goals
- your timeline and resources
- available options and their pros and cons
- suggestions of the most optimal strategy
Timeline: 1 - 6 weeks +
We will engage in:
- settlement negotiations
- mediation (if necessary)
- litigation or arbitration
Timeline: 12 weeks +
- settlement negotiations
- mediation (if necessary)
- litigation or arbitration
Timeline: 12 weeks +
We will conclude the dispute with:
- settlement agreement
- dismissal of the lawsuit
- judgment or arbitration award
- suggested changes to business practices
Timeline: 4 weeks +
- settlement agreement
- dismissal of the lawsuit
- judgment or arbitration award
- suggested changes to business practices
Timeline: 4 weeks +
We will make sure that:
- settlement payments are paid
- dismissal of the lawsuit is filed
- judgment or arbitration award is enforced
Timeline: 4 weeks +
- settlement payments are paid
- dismissal of the lawsuit is filed
- judgment or arbitration award is enforced
Timeline: 4 weeks +
our goal is to
protect your success
protectTo protect your business from risks of liabilities, we will help you understand the legal implications of deals or disputes in B2B and B2C relations, employment law, and other legal aspects of your small business.
build it upWe will help you set up and structure your business and walk you through the negotiations of your crucial deals. We will help you leverage your unique situation so that your business is set on a success trajectory.
plan to growWhenever you are ready to grow, buy or sell your business or start a new venture, we are still here to help you. We will stay with you to navigate business transitions, changes of ownership, restructuring, expansion and more.
what sets us apart
transparency
We value relationships and trust. Your attorney will have dedicated time for client calls, and keep you updated on each stage of your case. We adhere to our FAIR billing policy and take your opinion seriously.
tailored approach
We will check your short and long-term goals, assess your available resources and risk tolerance, and calibrate our trajectory to enhance your position. Our goal is to reach your most optimal results.
proper attention
Many lawyers become overloaded with cases in chasing after monetary gain.
We cap our volume at 30 billable hours a week, which is 75% of other firms' minimum. We do so to make sure each matter is given proper attention.
We cap our volume at 30 billable hours a week, which is 75% of other firms' minimum. We do so to make sure each matter is given proper attention.
results + methods
We get things done, and we also care how we get those results for you. We will not take a case to harass or intimidate another person. But we will fight vigorously to protect your interests. We value integrity in how we practice law.
hello, I'm Inna Brady
I love small businesses, and I love to litigate = resolve. The best part of my law practice is seeing a flourishing small business and its happy owner who boldly lives out his dream. I prefer working with small businesses because each has its challenges and growth path that needs customized attention. Among my clients are biotech companies, semiconductor manufacturers, tech startups, international distributors, restaurant owners, professional service firms, international hospitality companies, suppliers, and technology licensees. I've helped numerous businesses in dispute resolution and risk management across a wide range of business-related problems and initiatives.
I've worked with people from across the world. My clients are from South Korea, China, Vietnam, Russia, India, and the U.S. I speak three languages and love helping businesses from foreign countries or cultures.
What I value in my practice is integrity and the ability to positively impact my clients' growth and future.
Specialization
• commercial litigation
• commercial leases & real estate sale
• distribution agreements
• trademark disputes
• business sale
• licensing agreements
• wage and hour defense (employer side)
• real estate disputes
• construction disputes
Admission
District of Columbia
California
Maryland
Courts
Superior Court of the District of Columbia, San Francisco Superior Court, San Mateo Superior Court, Alameda Superior Court, Contra Costa Superior Court, Santa Clara Superior Court, District Court for the Northern District of California, Montgomery County Circuit Court in Maryland
Publications
- Liability for Wages to Temp Employees in California (2021)
- When Can a Parent Corporation Be Held Liable for Subsidiary's Obligations Under California Law? (2021)
- 5 Steps to Start a Business Entity in Washington, D.C. (2021)
I've worked with people from across the world. My clients are from South Korea, China, Vietnam, Russia, India, and the U.S. I speak three languages and love helping businesses from foreign countries or cultures.
What I value in my practice is integrity and the ability to positively impact my clients' growth and future.
Specialization
• commercial litigation
• commercial leases & real estate sale
• distribution agreements
• trademark disputes
• business sale
• licensing agreements
• wage and hour defense (employer side)
• real estate disputes
• construction disputes
Admission
District of Columbia
California
Maryland
Courts
Superior Court of the District of Columbia, San Francisco Superior Court, San Mateo Superior Court, Alameda Superior Court, Contra Costa Superior Court, Santa Clara Superior Court, District Court for the Northern District of California, Montgomery County Circuit Court in Maryland
Publications
- Liability for Wages to Temp Employees in California (2021)
- When Can a Parent Corporation Be Held Liable for Subsidiary's Obligations Under California Law? (2021)
- 5 Steps to Start a Business Entity in Washington, D.C. (2021)
Inna Brady
Principal Attorney
“
She helped enormously in my startup company's risk management. Her legal judgment was very important in choosing the company's business direction, and I hope that her expertise will continue supporting the growth of the company."
“
Partnership disputes
"Had a partnership problem and felt unjustified for almost two years. Now the case is settled. Thank you!"
"Had a partnership problem and felt unjustified for almost two years. Now the case is settled. Thank you!"
“
We couldn’t be happier with our experience with Inna. She was a strong advocate in our case, was a great listener, took our concerns seriously and went above and beyond to help us gather appropriate data and advisors to help assist us in the success of our litigation case without having to go to court or mediation. She had a calming presence and was able to work around our busy schedules and was instrumental in helping us make the best decisions regarding negotiation between the two parties. In the end, we settled for more that we expected and it was thanks to Inna and her guidance and attention to details that made it all possible. She was a sincere pleasure to work with and would highly recommend her to be on your side, as she was on ours and so thankful she was!"
“
Great business attorney!
"Process was quick, easy and reasonable rate as well. Inna was very punctual and communicated well through the entire process. Highly recommended!"
"Process was quick, easy and reasonable rate as well. Inna was very punctual and communicated well through the entire process. Highly recommended!"
“
An Attorney you can trust.
"Inna Brady handled my case very satisfactory, her knowledge in law was exceptional, she proceeded with my case it appeared to me with determination and a state of mind from the start to get me not only a fast result but one that was the best possible result. Inna, kept me informed and updated at every stage of my case. I think she was sincerely concerned about the costs and did everything possible to keep my costs low as possible. I'm very satisfied with the way she went about representation me and of my Company. She will be the attorney I call if I ever need one again. Thank You!"
"Inna Brady handled my case very satisfactory, her knowledge in law was exceptional, she proceeded with my case it appeared to me with determination and a state of mind from the start to get me not only a fast result but one that was the best possible result. Inna, kept me informed and updated at every stage of my case. I think she was sincerely concerned about the costs and did everything possible to keep my costs low as possible. I'm very satisfied with the way she went about representation me and of my Company. She will be the attorney I call if I ever need one again. Thank You!"
“
Knowledgeable, informed, up to date, courteous, professional, caring, and empathetic.
"Very knowledgeable about the law, also professional and goes above and beyond to keep me informed and up to date. She is comfortable explaining different options we have and best way to move forward. I would highly recommend this lawyer. Five out of five stars."
"Very knowledgeable about the law, also professional and goes above and beyond to keep me informed and up to date. She is comfortable explaining different options we have and best way to move forward. I would highly recommend this lawyer. Five out of five stars."
“
Licensing agreement
"I found her to be very knowledgeable and thorough in both explaining related issues and making them clear. I feel very comfortable in what I have in hand and how to work with it. Just what I was after."
"I found her to be very knowledgeable and thorough in both explaining related issues and making them clear. I feel very comfortable in what I have in hand and how to work with it. Just what I was after."
“
Competent, caring lawyer.
"Inna Nam Brady is a smart, caring lawyer. She evaluated my contract. She is extremely thorough, has broad knowledge, asks good questions, and brings up issues you might not have considered to protect your interests. Thank you, Inna! I am so happy I found you."
"Inna Nam Brady is a smart, caring lawyer. She evaluated my contract. She is extremely thorough, has broad knowledge, asks good questions, and brings up issues you might not have considered to protect your interests. Thank you, Inna! I am so happy I found you."
“
Responsive, Knowledgeable, and Genuinely Caring
"Inna impressed me with her timeliness, her rapid acquaintance with my case, and her genuine care for my success and well-being. Inna's messages and follow ups always exceeded my expectations of timeliness. She quickly familiarized herself with my case and provided invaluable advice and continues to provide support. I also got the sense of a genuine desire for my well-being to the extent that I could fully trust Inna. The investment in Inna was more than worthwhile and provided exceedingly pleasant returns. I would wholeheartedly recommend her."
"Inna impressed me with her timeliness, her rapid acquaintance with my case, and her genuine care for my success and well-being. Inna's messages and follow ups always exceeded my expectations of timeliness. She quickly familiarized herself with my case and provided invaluable advice and continues to provide support. I also got the sense of a genuine desire for my well-being to the extent that I could fully trust Inna. The investment in Inna was more than worthwhile and provided exceedingly pleasant returns. I would wholeheartedly recommend her."
“
Understanding and Knowledgeable
"I enjoyed working with Inna. I truly appreciated the information she provided on my matter. Inna went out of her way to ensure I understood the impacts of the agreement I was signing. It was something I did not have experience in. Inna was very responsive and ensured my questions and concerns were addressed (even answering her email during international travel). Because of the time and care provided by Inna on my matter, I feel much better about the agreement I signed. I truly appreciate Inna's work and professionalism."
"I enjoyed working with Inna. I truly appreciated the information she provided on my matter. Inna went out of her way to ensure I understood the impacts of the agreement I was signing. It was something I did not have experience in. Inna was very responsive and ensured my questions and concerns were addressed (even answering her email during international travel). Because of the time and care provided by Inna on my matter, I feel much better about the agreement I signed. I truly appreciate Inna's work and professionalism."
“
Successful settlement
"Inna provided critical legal representation for my wife and me when we struggled to find an attorney willing to take on our challenging case. Despite the complexity of the matter, she agreed to represent us. Throughout the difficult legal process, Inna was compassionate and deeply invested in achieving the best possible outcome. She worked tirelessly on our behalf to build a strong defense and secure a favorable settlement. We are incredibly grateful for Inna's skilled legal counsel and steadfast support during this trying time"
"Inna provided critical legal representation for my wife and me when we struggled to find an attorney willing to take on our challenging case. Despite the complexity of the matter, she agreed to represent us. Throughout the difficult legal process, Inna was compassionate and deeply invested in achieving the best possible outcome. She worked tirelessly on our behalf to build a strong defense and secure a favorable settlement. We are incredibly grateful for Inna's skilled legal counsel and steadfast support during this trying time"
empowering.
YOUR business.
to thrive.
YOUR business.
to thrive.
through times of adversity and uncertainty
connect
All consultations are done via videoconferencing or phone calls.
(202) 725-0523
(415) 237-3938
Free 15-minute call with our attorney
Monday through Friday
from 9 AM to 6 PM (EST).
(415) 237-3938
Free 15-minute call with our attorney
Monday through Friday
from 9 AM to 6 PM (EST).
- San Francisco Bay Area
(415) 237-39384 Embarcadero Center, Suite 1400
San Francisco, CA 94111
Our office is overlooking San Francisco Ferry Park, steps away from the San Francisco business center, 30 minutes away from San Francisco International Airport, and walking distance from the Embarcadero Metro Station.
- District of Columbia
(202) 725-0523300 New Jersey Ave. NW, Suite 900, Washington, D.C. 20001
Our office is conveniently located steps away from the Capitol and walking distance from the Archives Metro Station, Capitol South Metro Station, Federal Center SW Metro Station, Union Metro Station, and Judiciary Square Metro Stations.
Parking is available on-site. - Bethesda, MD
(202) 725-05234800 Hampden Lane, Suite 200
Bethesda, MD 20814
Our office is conveniently located in downtown Bethesda, two blocks from the Bethesda Metro station. The parking garage underneath the building has an elevator that takes you straight to Suite 200 on the second floor.
guides
Resources here are NOT LEGAL ADVICE.
Anyone seeking legal advice should retain an attorney.
Anyone seeking legal advice should retain an attorney.
business law blog
Resources here are NOT LEGAL ADVICE.
Anyone seeking legal advice should retain an attorney.
Anyone seeking legal advice should retain an attorney.
Free 15-minute Call with our attorney
(202) 725-0523
(415) 237-3938
(415) 237-3938
FAQ
How long does litigation take?
It depends on the opposing party's openness to resolution, the available resources, the judge's docket, and many other factors. Some lawsuits may last years, but some can be resolved within months. To effectively resolve a dispute, it is crucial to have a well-thought-out strategy.
How much in attorney's fees does it take to resolve a business dispute?
The amount of attorney's fees depends on many factors, such as the fee arrangement, case complexity, hourly rate, and the course of the dispute resolution. Generally, the earlier the dispute is resolved, the less are the attorney's fees.
It is helpful to understand fee structures. Attorneys usually charge hourly rates. An hourly rate depends on the market (particular geographic and practice area), the attorney's experience, and the complexity of the individual case.
Some attorneys also offer contingency fees when they are paid a certain percentage of the recovered sums. This arrangement is particularly convenient for plaintiffs with a good chance of winning.
Some firms offer a combination of hourly and contingency fees.
Our firm offers competitive rates and a transparent Billing Policy. Our attorneys will inform you about significant expenses and consult with you about threshold decisions that may affect the value of the case.
It is helpful to understand fee structures. Attorneys usually charge hourly rates. An hourly rate depends on the market (particular geographic and practice area), the attorney's experience, and the complexity of the individual case.
Some attorneys also offer contingency fees when they are paid a certain percentage of the recovered sums. This arrangement is particularly convenient for plaintiffs with a good chance of winning.
Some firms offer a combination of hourly and contingency fees.
Our firm offers competitive rates and a transparent Billing Policy. Our attorneys will inform you about significant expenses and consult with you about threshold decisions that may affect the value of the case.
Should I respond to a demand or cease-and-desist letter on my own?
It is better to consult with an attorney before you respond to a demand or cease-and-desist letter. It is essential to understand your rights, defenses, remedies, and how your statements may be used against you. The attorney will explain your options and develop a strategy to resolve your dispute.
What stages does a lawsuit go through?
Lawsuit stages can vary depending on court rules, the nature of the dispute, and parties' resources. Generally, a trial level lawsuit can be roughly explained in four stages. Please remember that a dispute may be resolved at any stage or even before the lawsuit is filed.
1. Pleading stage. A lawsuit starts with the pleading stage when the plaintiff files a complaint, obtains summons, serves summons and the complaint on the defendant. The defendant responds to the complaint either through "answer" or other papers, such as a motion to dismiss, demurrer, motion to strike, motion to change venue, objections to jurisdiction, and the like. If the defendant does not respond on time, the plaintiff may request to enter a default and then apply for a default judgment.
2. Discovery. At this stage, parties may request documents, and send requests for admission and interrogatories. The other party has to respond and produce the requested information unless this information is privileged or protected. Parties may also subpoena information from non-parties.
After the written information is gathered, parties may start depositions. A deposition is a semi-official proceeding (without a judge, but with a court reporter) where an attorney can ask the deponent various questions. The deponent has to respond under oath unless there is a valid privilege, in which case the deponent may refuse to respond.
Depending on the case, parties may also conduct "expert discovery." They hire experts, exchange expert reports, and do depositions of the experts.
3. Motions. Throughout the lawsuit, parties may file various motions, such as motion for summary judgment, motion for judgment on the pleadings, application for attachment, motions related to admissibility of evidence at trial, motion for bifurcation, and other motions.
4. Trial and post-trial. Trials consist of each party presenting its evidence to the judge and the jury (or just the judge without jury). Attorneys may also consider motions after the trial. After the trial-level decision, depending on the grounds, the decision may be appealed.
1. Pleading stage. A lawsuit starts with the pleading stage when the plaintiff files a complaint, obtains summons, serves summons and the complaint on the defendant. The defendant responds to the complaint either through "answer" or other papers, such as a motion to dismiss, demurrer, motion to strike, motion to change venue, objections to jurisdiction, and the like. If the defendant does not respond on time, the plaintiff may request to enter a default and then apply for a default judgment.
2. Discovery. At this stage, parties may request documents, and send requests for admission and interrogatories. The other party has to respond and produce the requested information unless this information is privileged or protected. Parties may also subpoena information from non-parties.
After the written information is gathered, parties may start depositions. A deposition is a semi-official proceeding (without a judge, but with a court reporter) where an attorney can ask the deponent various questions. The deponent has to respond under oath unless there is a valid privilege, in which case the deponent may refuse to respond.
Depending on the case, parties may also conduct "expert discovery." They hire experts, exchange expert reports, and do depositions of the experts.
3. Motions. Throughout the lawsuit, parties may file various motions, such as motion for summary judgment, motion for judgment on the pleadings, application for attachment, motions related to admissibility of evidence at trial, motion for bifurcation, and other motions.
4. Trial and post-trial. Trials consist of each party presenting its evidence to the judge and the jury (or just the judge without jury). Attorneys may also consider motions after the trial. After the trial-level decision, depending on the grounds, the decision may be appealed.
What is Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR)?
Alternative Dispute Resolution is a way of resolving your dispute without litigation. Some courts facilitate ADR by asking or mandating certain types of ADR. ADR types include neutral evaluation, mediation, settlement conference, arbitration, and the like.
What is mediation?
Mediation is when a neutral third party, the mediator, facilitates settlement discussions between parties. The mediator may suggest specific terms of settlement, but those terms are not binding unless both parties agree to them.
What is arbitration and is it better than going to court?
Arbitration is a private dispute resolution with a binding result. Arbitration is usually mandatory if the parties agree to it through an arbitration agreement. However, arbitration may be waived if a party files a lawsuit in a court, and the other parties do not timely object to it.
Advantages of arbitration:
- it is more informal and streamlined
- it may be faster than courts because there are usually no appeal proceedings
- discovery proceedings may be more limited than in courts
- case records are less available to the public, making arbitration more confidential
- it may limit the potential for a class action
- there is no jury, which in some cases may help your case
Disadvantages of arbitration:
- arbitrator's award is final and usually cannot be appealed
- discovery proceedings may be more limited
- arbitration can be expensive because of administrative and arbitrator's fees
- there is no jury option, which in some cases may affect your case negatively
Whether arbitration is better for your situation will depend on your resources, timeline, preferences for confidentiality, and other factors, which you should discuss with your attorney.
Advantages of arbitration:
- it is more informal and streamlined
- it may be faster than courts because there are usually no appeal proceedings
- discovery proceedings may be more limited than in courts
- case records are less available to the public, making arbitration more confidential
- it may limit the potential for a class action
- there is no jury, which in some cases may help your case
Disadvantages of arbitration:
- arbitrator's award is final and usually cannot be appealed
- discovery proceedings may be more limited
- arbitration can be expensive because of administrative and arbitrator's fees
- there is no jury option, which in some cases may affect your case negatively
Whether arbitration is better for your situation will depend on your resources, timeline, preferences for confidentiality, and other factors, which you should discuss with your attorney.
Can I settle the lawsuit after it was already filed?
Yes. Even if the lawsuit was filed, you may still settle the dispute and include the dismissal as one of the terms of the settlement agreement. Generally, if the case is entirely settled, it is dismissed "with prejudice," which means that parties may not file the lawsuit again. Please consult with an attorney regarding the correct procedures for dismissal and the terms to include in the settlement agreement.
Which state and which court should I sue in?
It depends on the location of the defendant, the location of the underlying events, the "forum selection clause" in the contract, the residence of potential witnesses, and other factors. Please consult with an attorney about this question because the venue may affect your case and the dispute resolution strategy.
When do I need to hire an attorney to resolve a business dispute?
As soon as you realize there is a dispute, you should contact an attorney to understand the implications, potential claims and defenses, and your legal rights and remedies. The sooner you understand your options and develop a strategy, the more leverage you have in resolving the dispute.
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D.C. Office: 300 New Jersey Avenue NW, Suite 900, Washington, D.C. 20001
San Francisco Office: 4 Embarcadero Center, Suite 1400, San Francisco, CA 94111
Bethesda Office: 4800 Hampden Lane, Suite 200, Bethesda, MD 20814
Hours: Monday to Friday
9 AM to 6 PM
+1-202-725-0523
+1-415-237-3938
connect@iblawfirm.com
San Francisco Office: 4 Embarcadero Center, Suite 1400, San Francisco, CA 94111
Bethesda Office: 4800 Hampden Lane, Suite 200, Bethesda, MD 20814
Hours: Monday to Friday
9 AM to 6 PM
+1-202-725-0523
+1-415-237-3938
connect@iblawfirm.com
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