What does the term "tortious interference" signify?

The term "tortious interference" specifically refers to the unlawful disruption of a contractual relationship between two parties. This legal concept occurs when a third party, knowing that a contract exists, intentionally interferes with that contract, causing one of the parties involved to either breach or not fulfill their obligations under the agreement.

To establish a claim for tortious interference, several elements must typically be demonstrated, including the existence of a valid contract, the defendant's knowledge of that contract, intentional interference that causes a breach or disrupts performance, and resultant damages to the plaintiff.

This concept is crucial in commercial law, as it protects the sanctity of contracts and ensures that parties can rely on their agreements without fear of external disruption. The focus is on the intentional nature of the interference, differentiating it from other legal issues associated with contracts or employment relationships.