Disputes we handle
- breach of contract claims, for claimants and defendants;
- supply of goods and services disputes, including quality, delay and non-payment;
- warranty and indemnity claims after a business sale;
- shareholder and partnership disputes;
- urgent injunctions, for example to protect confidential information or prevent the removal of assets;
- professional negligence claims against advisers.
We act for claimants and defendants, from owner-managed businesses to international companies, in disputes governed by the law of England and Wales.
How commercial disputes are resolved
Most disputes settle before trial. The aim is to reach the right result quickly, while being ready to go to court if needed.
- Early assessment. We review the contract, the correspondence and the evidence, and give you a candid view of your position and the likely costs.
- Pre-action stage. We set out your case formally, exchange key documents and invite settlement. The courts expect this, and a strong letter often resolves matters.
- Alternative dispute resolution. Mediation and negotiation resolve many disputes at a fraction of the cost of trial. The courts can now order parties to take part in ADR, and they penalise an unreasonable refusal.
- Litigation. Where settlement is not possible, we issue or defend proceedings and take the case through to trial if necessary.
Costs risk matters in every case. In England and Wales the losing party usually pays a large part of the winner's costs, so we keep the commercial picture in view throughout. Before you commit to proceedings, we also consider whether the other side could actually pay a judgment.
Common questions
Should I mediate or litigate?
Often both are part of the same plan. Mediation can resolve a dispute quickly, and litigation can be started or continued if it does not.
What will a commercial dispute cost?
It depends on the value and complexity of the dispute and how the other side behaves. We give you the best estimate we can at the outset and update it as the case progresses.
How long does commercial litigation take?
Many disputes settle within weeks or months. A case that goes to trial can take a year or more.
Facing a business dispute? Request a call back using the form, or call 0800 037 1305 (international callers +44 1482 616 616).
