Business disputes

Advice on a wide range of business disputes

Commercial disagreements can arise for many reasons. Our team can advise on a range of disputes affecting businesses, including:

Breach of contract: Where a customer, supplier or business partner fails to meet their contractual obligations.

Shareholder disputes: Disagreements over company management, decision-making, financial matters or the responsibilities of shareholders.

Partnership disputes: Conflicts between business partners over profit sharing, business direction, duties or the future of the business.

Debt recovery: Where customers or other businesses fail to pay invoices or meet agreed payment terms.

Supplier and customer disputes: Problems involving the quality of goods or services, missed deadlines, payment terms or other contractual obligations.

Every dispute is different. The best approach will depend on the facts, the strength of your position, the potential financial consequences and the importance of preserving an ongoing business relationship.

Resolving a business dispute

Court proceedings are not always the best or most cost-effective way to resolve a commercial disagreement. Where appropriate, we can explore alternative approaches to help you reach a practical settlement.

Negotiation may allow the parties to resolve their differences directly, with legal advice helping you understand your position and negotiate from a position of strength.

Mediation involves an independent mediator helping the parties explore a mutually acceptable solution. It can be particularly useful where both sides want to avoid the cost and uncertainty of litigation.

Court proceedings may be necessary where informal discussions fail, a party will not engage constructively, or a binding decision is required. We can advise on the merits of pursuing a claim or defending one, together with the potential costs, risks and timescales.

Arbitration may also be relevant where the contract provides for it or the parties agree to use it. The appropriate route will depend on the dispute and any applicable contractual provisions.

Our aim is to help you make an informed decision, balancing the legal position with the commercial realities facing your business.

What should you do if your business is involved in a dispute?

The steps you take at an early stage can make a difference to how a dispute develops. If a disagreement arises, consider the following:

Keep records: Preserve contracts, invoices, emails, letters, meeting notes and other documents relevant to the issue.

Review the agreement: Check the terms of any contract, including payment provisions, deadlines, dispute-resolution clauses and notice requirements.

Avoid hasty decisions: Do not make admissions, agree to new terms or threaten legal action without first considering the potential consequences.

Act promptly: Delays can weaken your position, affect commercial relationships and, in some cases, cause legal deadlines to be missed.

Seek legal advice early: Understanding your rights and obligations can help you identify the most proportionate way forward.

Taking advice does not automatically mean starting court proceedings. Early legal input can help clarify the issues, identify possible solutions and establish a strategy before costs escalate.

How much does it cost to resolve a business dispute?

The cost depends on the complexity of the dispute, the amount at stake, the evidence available and whether the parties can reach an agreement without proceedings.

A relatively straightforward contractual disagreement may be resolved through correspondence and negotiation. A complex shareholder dispute or contested court claim is likely to require more time and preparation.

We can discuss the circumstances of your case, explain the options available and provide information about likely costs and the next steps. Where possible, resolving a dispute early can help avoid the additional expense and disruption associated with prolonged proceedings.