Win-win situation

Here’s another quiz for you:

John, a lawyer, gave Richard free use of his office facilities, on Richard’s agreement to pay as soon as he won his first case. However, he had no clients. After six months, John grew impatient and sued Richard. John figured he had a sure case: “If I win, the court will order him to pay. If I lose, he must pay according to the terms of the agreement (Richard agreed to pay as soon as he wins his first case). How did Richard see the suit?