Both California contract law and tort law allow for legal action when a third party wrongfully interferes with a contract or ongoing business relationship. California courts have long recognized causes of action for tortious interference with contract and tortious interference with prospective economic advantage.If a third party unfairly interferes with a business contract or relationship and causes damage, a tortious interference claim may be a viable option. Wrongful or tortious interference with contracts happens when a thirdparty intentionally causes a contracting party to commit a breach of contract. If the defendant was a competitor regarding the business involved in the contract, his interference with the contract may not be improper. The court held that a plaintiff asserting a tortious interference claim involving an atwill contract must plead an independently wrongful act. A claim for tortious interference arises when (a) there is a valid contract or business expectancy between the plaintiff and a party other than the defendant.