A Publishing Literary Agent and Contract law

[BoboMcGee]

I work in publishing as a writer my agent takes 30% of everything I earn. Due to a series of late payments I asked the publisher to pay me my 70% share directly and his share 30% to the agent directly which they have done so.

The agent is now saying I have breached the contract which says all monies should go through him (it does say this in the contract). Does he have a leg to stand on with this? Bare in mind he's been paid his share, he wants me to pay him my share then I have to invoice him for it back.

[paulajayne]

Late payments from your agent may invalidate the contract as he/she have failed to pay in a timely manner.

Check your contract on payment timings.

It may give you an escape clause from this contract and to /or not to seek another agent.