Dispute Resolution
For decades, our clients have trusted us to resolve their disputes in a way that’s straightforward, clear and cost-effective. With our years of experience, we know how difficult issues like this can be – for you, your family, and your business. So whether it’s property or inheritance, contracts or employment, we start by talking through your priorities and exploring your options. Then we recommend an approach, from mediation to litigation, to get you the results you want.
Trusted, straightforward advice for dispute resolution
Despite our best endeavours and sometimes through no fault of our own we can find ourselves involved in legal disputes. Should you find your business faced with a dispute or potential dispute, it is very important to understand what your business is getting involved in. It is usually better to find a commercial solution to a dispute rather than resort to court action.
Practical steps to take when a dispute arises.
- Your business should take legal advice as soon as possible after an incident occurs. If you receive any formal documents requiring a response within a specified time, take legal advice immediately.
- Do not leave everything to the last minute. There are time limits that your business needs to comply with.
- You should consider whether talking to the other party without having a lawyer present is appropriate, whilst talking is sometimes the best way of resolving a dispute quickly. You do not want to say something that may be used against you at a later date if the dispute continues.
- Do not admit anything or agree to settle without taking legal advice unless you are absolutely certain as to the implications of the agreed terms.
- Limit internal discussions to those with a real “need to know”. However, ensure that anyone within your business with day-to-day contact with the other party is aware that there is a potential dispute.
Before getting involved in a legal dispute there are many things worth considering, like the value of the claim, the costs involved and the overall effect this could have on your business.
Negotiating a settlement
You should not consider it a sign of weakness to approach the other side to explore the chances of a settlement. This can be done at any time during the litigation process, even during a trial, if the dispute gets this far. Settlement negotiations facilitated by a neutral third party (known as mediation) are increasingly popular.
Our dispute resolution team can help you to resolve these disputes and review the remedies available, so give us a call.
Contractual Disputes
Whether it is written, oral, commercial or private, parties frequently fall out over the terms of agreement. This may be because one party has not performed an obligation, including a payment obligation, or there is a misunderstanding or uncertainty as to what those obligations are.
Landlord or Property Disputes
We can assist you with both residential and commercial property matters, whether it is to retake possession, collecting rent arrears or assisting with leases or rental agreements, Neves are here - at your side.
Employment Disputes
Employee disputes are best resolved informally directly between an employee and the employer. However, if this is proving difficult then you may need to get legal advice as to the next steps.
Injunctions
An injunction is a court order that requires a party to refrain from or comply with specific acts. Failing to comply with an injunction could mean facing criminal or civil penalties.
Shareholder Disputes
All too often business partners find themselves disagreeing with each other and this can lead to disastrous consequences for their business.
Boundary disputes
There are different types of boundary disputes including those between commercial and agricultural neighbours but the most common by far is between neighbours in residential properties. It is not surprising that the number of boundary disputes continues to increase as more and more houses are built.
Family Disputes
Disputes regarding family matters can be extremely difficult to resolve particularly with regards to cohabitation and property ownership as well as disputes over inheritance.
Debt Collection
Pursuing payments from individuals or businesses for work completed, services delivered or goods provided can be a lengthy and time-consuming process. Whether it is a large or relatively small sum of money, we can help you recover your debts.
Mediation
Mediation is a completely voluntary form of alternative dispute resolution. It involves an independent, impartial person helping two or more individuals or groups reach a solution that's acceptable to everyone. Sides can meet together or individually with the mediator.
You do have a way with words Fiona and if it was an olympic sport I am sure you would win a gold medal!
Members of our team
