Dispute Resolution

Most disputes are better settled than fought, and we say so when that is true. When a matter must be argued, we prepare it thoroughly and represent you before arbitral tribunals and the courts.

Businesses and individuals owed money, parties to a contract that has broken down, employers and employees in dispute, and anyone who has been served with court papers or a demand letter.

What we do

• Negotiated settlements and mediation: Demand letters, without-prejudice negotiation and mediation that settle the matter before the costs mount.
• Commercial arbitration: Representation in arbitrations under a contract clause or an agreed reference, from the notice to the award.
• Civil litigation: Suits and defences in the High Court, and appeals to the Court of Appeal, argued plainly.
• Debt recovery: A staged approach from demand to judgment and enforcement, so you know at each step whether the cost is worth the amount.
• Employment disputes: Termination, unpaid entitlements and workplace grievances, for employers and employees, including proceedings before the Labour Commission.

How a matter usually runs

1. Tell us what has happened: The facts as you know them, the documents you have, and what you want at the end. We say early whether the matter is worth pursuing.
2. An assessment in writing: Our view of the strengths and weaknesses, the routes available, and the likely cost of each, before you commit.
3. Demand, negotiation or proceedings: We start with the least costly route that can work, and escalate only when it does not.
4. Resolution and enforcement: A signed settlement, or an award or judgment, followed through to payment or performance.

What to bring

• The contract or agreement in dispute
• Letters, emails and messages exchanged with the other side
• Invoices, receipts or payment records
• Any court papers or demand letters you have received
• Names of witnesses, if there are any

Common questions

How do I know if my case is worth pursuing?

That is the first question we answer, in writing, before you spend more. Some matters are better settled quickly for less than the full amount.

What does it cost to go to court?

It depends on the court, the complexity and how far the matter goes. Our written assessment sets out the likely stages and the cost of each.

Should I reply to a demand letter myself?

Send it to us first. A reply written in haste can concede a point that matters later.

Can a dispute be settled after a case has started?

Yes, and many are. We keep the door to settlement open at every stage.