To sue for breach, first show there was a valid, legally enforceable agreement. Utah typically recognizes a contract when these elements are present:

• Offer — one party proposed clear terms.
• Acceptance — the other party agreed to those terms.
• Consideration — something of value was exchanged.
• Mutual intent — both sides intended a binding deal.
• Capability — both were legally capable of contracting.

A contract does not always have to be in writing, but written terms are much easier to prove in court.

Under Utah breach of contract law, you generally must prove four things:

• A valid contract existed.
• You performed your part or had a valid excuse.
• The other party failed to perform.
• You suffered damages as a result.

Courts look at evidence like emails, invoices, the agreement, payment records, and witness statements.

A breach happens when a party fails to perform a major duty without a legal excuse. Examples include not delivering goods, not paying, or performing below the agreed quality.

Utah courts typically measure damages in three ways:

Where you file depends on the amount and relief sought:

• Small Claims Court — up to $15,000. Faster and often without attorneys.
• District Court — above $15,000 or when seeking injunctions or other equitable relief.

Gather the contract, communications, and proof of payment or performance before filing.

• Written contracts — generally six years (Utah Code § 78B-2-309).
• Oral contracts — typically four years (Utah Code § 78B-2-307).

If you miss the deadline, the court will likely dismiss the case, even with strong evidence.

• Impossibility due to uncontrollable events.
• Waiver by the other party.
• Lack of consideration.
• Fraud or misrepresentation.
• Duress at the time of contracting.

Courts examine the facts closely, so targeted evidence matters.

Two Salt Lake City partners agree to share profits from a landscaping business. One secretly takes side jobs with company equipment and hides the income. The other sues for breach.

The plaintiff presents the signed partnership agreement, invoices, and bank statements showing unpaid profits. The court awards compensatory damages for lost revenue. Clear documentation and a clean timeline carry the day.

• The contract (written or digital).
• Emails or texts showing expectations and promises.
• Proof of performance, such as receipts, delivery records, or milestones.
• Any written notice you sent about the breach.

Organized evidence speeds the case and improves credibility, even in small claims.

• Utah Code § 78B-2-307 — Limitation for oral contracts.
• Utah Code § 78B-2-309 — Limitation for written contracts.