Kansas Contract Disputes: What They Are, How They Happen, and What to Do Next

Kennedy Berkley
Nov 17
3 min read

Contract disputes are one of the most common legal issues individuals and businesses face—and they can take on many forms. At Kennedy Berkley, we see these cases every day, particularly in industries like real estate, leases, employment contracts, financial and lending agreements, construction, agriculture, and business transactions - and the list goes on and on!

Whether there’s a written agreement in place or only an oral promise, Kansas law recognizes both types of contracts. When one party fails to hold up their end of the bargain, legal action may be necessary.

What Is a Contract Dispute?

At its core, a contract dispute arises when:

A party fails to perform as promised
A project takes too long or is done poorly
Work is left incomplete or done incorrectly
Payments aren’t made as agreed
A warranty or guarantee is breached

In other words, it’s any situation where expectations set by a contract—written or oral—aren’t met.

Common Types of Contract Disputes in Kansas

Breach of Contract – When one side does not deliver what was agreed upon.
Fraud or Misrepresentation – When false promises or misleading statements are made.
Duress or Pressure – When someone is forced into an agreement against their will.
Poor Workmanship – Especially common in construction disputes, where work is substandard.
Nonpayment – When services are rendered but payment is withheld.
Warranty Issues – When a party fails to stand behind the quality or functionality of their work or product.

Real-World Example: When an Invoice Doesn’t Add Up

One recent case involved a client who hired an irrigation company to repair his wells. Despite multiple attempts, the wells were never fixed—yet the company still sent him an invoice. An independent inspection revealed the work was done poorly. When challenged, the invoice was dismissed without a fight. This is a classic example of a contract dispute based on failed performance.

Do Contract Disputes Always Go to Court? Not usually. In fact, most contract disputes are resolved long before reaching trial. Attorneys often negotiate directly to reach settlements that are faster and less expensive than litigation. Still, having an experienced lawyer on your side is critical, because without legal representation you may not have the leverage to get a fair outcome.

If you’re unsure whether your situation qualifies as a contract dispute—or you’re wondering what your options might be—our team at Kennedy Berkley is here to help. A quick conversation with an experienced attorney can save you time, money, and stress by pointing you in the right direction from the very start.

Why You Need a Lawyer for Contract Disputes

Contract disputes are rarely simple. Between complex state laws, the possibility of fraud or warranty claims, and the need for detailed evidence, these cases can quickly become overwhelming. An experienced attorney can:

Evaluate your claim and determine the best legal strategy
Negotiate directly with the other party’s lawyer
Protect you from paying for services not performed correctly
Ensure you receive fair compensation for damages or losses

Kennedy Berkley: Advocating for Clients Across Kansas and the United States

From Salina to Garden City, Dodge City to Hays and beyond, our attorneys regularly assist individuals, families, and businesses with contract disputes of all sizes. Whether you’re a construction company, a farmer dealing with defective equipment, or a business owner facing nonpayment, we have the knowledge and experience to fight for your rights.

If you’re facing a contract dispute in Kansas, don’t try to navigate it alone. These matters are complex, and having the right legal team makes all the difference. Contact Kennedy Berkley today to discuss your situation and explore your options.

This article is general information, not legal or tax advice. Facts matter. Work with counsel and your tax advisor to structure and document your operation under the new rules.