Dispute resolution

A legal dispute is rarely just about the law. Businesses also need to consider cost, disruption, reputation, cash flow and the impact on future trading relationships.

Our approach is therefore practical as well as legal. We examine the key documents, communications and background to the dispute, identify the strengths and weaknesses of your position and advise you on the most effective route forward.

Sometimes a firm letter or focused negotiation is enough to unlock a settlement. In other cases, mediation, arbitration or litigation may be more appropriate. We will explain the benefits and risks of each option and help you choose a strategy that is proportionate to what is at stake.

We understand that court proceedings are rarely anyone’s first choice. Many commercial disputes can be resolved more efficiently through negotiation or another form of alternative dispute resolution.

Mediation can be particularly useful where both sides want to avoid the time and expense of litigation but have been unable to reach agreement themselves. Arbitration may also be available in certain contractual disputes, particularly where the parties have agreed in advance to use that process.

We remain focused on settlement opportunities throughout a case. Even if proceedings have already started, there may still be scope to reach terms that deliver a better commercial outcome than continuing to trial.

When court proceedings become necessary, our team is prepared to protect your interests robustly and guide you through every stage of the process.

Contractual disagreements can arise over payment terms, performance, delivery, termination, service standards or the interpretation of agreed obligations.

We advise businesses on disputes arising from commercial contracts of all kinds. Our solicitors can review the relevant terms, assess whether a breach has occurred and explain what remedies may be available.

Where possible, early intervention can help prevent a disagreement from becoming more entrenched. If formal action is required, we can assist with bringing or defending a claim and managing the dispute through to resolution.

Internal business disputes can be among the most disruptive because they often affect both the management and future direction of a company.

We advise shareholders, directors and business partners where relationships have broken down, or disagreements have developed over ownership, control, decision-making, conduct or exit arrangements.

The aim is often to protect value as well as legal rights. That may involve negotiating a commercial solution, agreeing a structured separation or, where necessary, pursuing formal remedies.

For many businesses, intellectual property is a core commercial asset. Unauthorised use of a trade mark, copyright, design or other protected material can damage both revenue and brand reputation.
We can advise on suspected infringement and the steps available to prevent continued misuse.

Our team also handles franchise disputes, including disagreements about contractual obligations, payments, standards, performance and termination. These matters often require a balance between protecting legal rights and considering the wider commercial relationship.

Problems can arise when goods are defective, deliveries are delayed, services fall below agreed standards or payment is withheld because one side believes the other has failed to perform.

We help businesses assess their contractual position and determine what action is justified. That may involve challenging allegations, seeking payment, negotiating a commercial compromise or commencing proceedings. Our focus is on resolving the issue efficiently and avoiding unnecessary escalation where possible.

Persistent non-payment can have a direct effect on cash flow and day-to-day operations.

We assist businesses with the recovery of unpaid invoices and other commercial debts. Before taking action, we consider the amount owed, the evidence available, whether the debt is genuinely disputed and the financial position of the debtor.

Where a straightforward demand is enough, there may be no need for prolonged legal action. Where payment is still not forthcoming, we can advise on the next appropriate steps and pursue formal recovery where justified.

Some disputes cannot wait.
If there is a risk that assets may be moved, confidential information misused or serious commercial harm caused, urgent court intervention may be necessary. This can include applications for injunctions or freezing orders.

These applications can involve complex legal and procedural requirements and often need to be dealt with at speed. Our solicitors can assess whether urgent action is appropriate, explain the legal requirements and help put the necessary evidence before the court.