Legal Question in Civil Rights Law in California

Obviously, partners can break up or close the business whenever they want. That is what is wrong with partnerships in general, and especially ones that don't have clear written partnership and operating agreements defining all the terms of the 'deal'. If the parties can't agree, then you might end up in court fighting over the investment, income and assets to be split. If it is economically worth hiring an attorney to help you, either to negotiate a settlement or to file suit, feel free to contact me.

This is a fairly complex question, and more information would be needed in order to fully answer it. Among other things, it would be important to know if the other person invested money in the venture or not, and how much each of you invested.

Absent an agreement to the contrary, you have the right to bring your relationship with this other person at any time, and settle your affairs with him. Of course, you can't stop him from suing you if he decides to do that -- the courts are open to everyone, and there is no screening mechanism at the courthouse door. It is not possible, however, to tell you who would prevail in that case or what the outcome would be.

A concerted attempt to settle probably makes sense. You may wish to suggest mediation to this other person, so that a neutral third party can help you find an arrangement that you both find acceptable.

I also suggest you contact counsel, if only for a consultation to see what your rights and responsibilities are. That lawyer can ask the necessary questions and provide confidential advice -- which we cannot do here.