Commercial Litigation

Seeking early, cost effective resolutions

If you’re running a business – be it a SME or a multi-national corporation – one thing you definitely don’t need is drawn-out, expensive, reputationally-damaging litigation. We believe in seeking early, cost-effective resolutions that put a matter to bed as quickly as possible, allowing you to focus on important business issues.

We will inform the other party of your position and what steps will follow if an agreement can’t be reached amicably. If it’s possible to find common ground and a satisfactory solution for all, then we will.

Alternative dispute resolution

Alternative dispute resolution (ADR) is a common method to resolve disputes without engaging in costly litigation through the court system.

ADR covers several methods, including arbitration, mediation, conciliation and negotiation.

We have qualified and experienced mediators who can help two parties in dispute find common ground and a viable path forward. Utilising the skills of a mediator is often far less time consuming than going through the courts.

We have even worked with businesses in bitter disputes who have been able, through mediation, to rebuild their relationship and continue trading with each other, for the benefit of all.

Commercial disputes

A commercial dispute is a process to settle differences involving a commercial transaction or deal. It's a highly formalised process and should only be used as a last resort when communication has broken down to such an extent that an amicable solution is impossible.

Commercial disputes can be contested between companies, individuals or a mix of both. They can cover a wide range of issues, including fraud, construction disputes and partnership disputes.

Due to their complexity, it’s vital to instruct the best legal advisors with experience across all issues.

Corporate disputes

Despite best intentions, disputes within businesses will sometimes occur. Corporate disputes can include: shareholder disputes, director disputes, partnership disputes and board deadlocks.

Our highly experienced lawyers can help resolve issues before they burden the company. Most disputes are easily resolved but, without expert help, they can escalate, become toxic and, ultimately, force a company to end.

Partnership disputes

Partnership disputes arise, as you'd expect, when business partners find themselves in serious disagreement. They are notoriously messy as it's common for business partnerships to be informal with little - if any - formal documentation.

Our experts can help untangle problems and reconcile partners, despite the difficulties of informality.

Breach of contract disputes

A breach of contract happens when one party breaks one or more of the terms of conditions within an agreement, or fails to deliver on their obligations within the contract. In a business scenario, this could be the supply of defective goods or services or being late with services without a reasonable excuse. In some cases, compensation for loss or damage could apply.

Our talented dispute resolution lawyers will help you resolve claims in an effective manner, avoiding costly litigation where possible.

IP disputes

Intellectual property (IP) in commerce refers to the designs, symbols, names and images a business has created. They are vital business assets and you are likely to want to take action if you find someone else using your IP.

The online world has seen IP infringement increase dramatically. Our clients rely on our IP experts to resolve cases quickly and pragmatically to ensure business damage is limited - as well as providing advice to safeguard IP before an offence occurs.

Insolvency

The insolvency process aims to resolve unpaid debts between companies and their creditors when a business collapses - but disputes can often arise between stakeholders with competing interests.

Our team can offer leading advice, whether you are defending or bringing a claim.

Insolvency disputes are often complex and fast moving. We'll act quickly to get a full understanding of all the elements involved to maximise results for your business.

Debt recovery

We understand the importance of cash flow for your business, so when specialist debt recovery is required, we'll work to achieve the best outcome as quickly as possible.

We'll support you through the process, from letter before action, to court proceedings and enforcement, seeking resolution at each stage to salvage business relationships wherever possible.

Defamation and reputation management

It’s often said that a reputation can take years to build – but a moment to be destroyed.

If your business finds itself the target of defamation, libel or slander, robust legal action is required to resolve the matter quickly to minimise the damage.

Whether through negotiation or, where necessary, court action, we will fight for a fair outcome for your business.

Prevention is better than cure, so our specialist lawyers can also advise on reputation management issues before an attack occurs.