Dispute Resolution for business

Disputes in business are more than just a distraction, they can be costly, time-consuming, and disruptive. That’s why our Dispute Resolution team is here to step in with practical, commercial, and strategic advice that gets to the heart of the issue.

We don’t believe in dragging things out unnecessarily. Our approach is simple: understand your business, assess the risks, and find the best route to resolution. Whether that means early negotiation, mediation, or fighting your corner in court, we’ll guide you every step of the way.

Recognised in The Legal 500 for our expertise, we deal with a wide range of commercial disputes, including:

• Contract disputes and breach of agreements
• Disputes over goods, services, and warranties
• Claims involving company directors and fiduciary duties
• Shareholder and partnership disputes
• Freezing orders and emergency injunctions

If there’s a way to resolve your dispute quickly and efficiently, we’ll find it. If it needs a more robust approach, we’ll fight your corner with confidence. Either way, our focus is on getting the best possible outcome for you, with the least amount of stress.

Unpaid debts can put significant strain on cash flow, whether you’re a small business or a large corporation. Our Debt Recovery team provides a swift, cost-effective service to help recover what you’re owed.

We assist with:

• Pre-action debt recovery and demand letters
• County Court and High Court enforcement proceedings
• Statutory demands and bankruptcy petitions
• Defending and pursuing debt claims
• Negotiating repayment plans and settlements

Our streamlined approach ensures that debts are pursued efficiently, with minimal disruption to your business. Whether through negotiation or legal action, we’ll work to secure the best outcome for you.

Our property litigation team has extensive experience defending landlords, whether local authorities, businesses, charities, or private landlords, against housing disrepair claims.

We recognise the challenges landlords face when responding to these claims, especially when claimant firms pursue excessive damages and legal costs. We have an in-depth understanding of the Pre-Action Protocol for Housing Condition Claims and the tactics often used by claimants.

Common allegations in disrepair claims include:

• Damp, mould, and leaks;
• Sewage and drainage system faults;
• Faulty doors and windows;
• Cracked plaster;
• Defective heating;
• Pest and vermin infestations; and
• Health and safety risks.

The key to avoiding or defending disrepair claims is prompt action. We advise landlords to respond quickly to disrepair concerns and document repairs comprehensively. If you are facing a housing disrepair claim, contact us as soon as possible for expert guidance.

Financial distress can be overwhelming, whether you’re an individual, a business owner, or an insolvency professional managing complex cases. Our team cuts through the noise, offering pragmatic, commercially sound advice tailored to your circumstances.

With insolvency laws constantly evolving, we stay ahead of the curve, ensuring you have the latest legal strategies at your disposal. Whether you’re a creditor recovering debts, a director facing claims, or an insolvency practitioner managing complex cases, we’re here to support you.

Our expertise covers:

• Statutory demands and winding-up petitions
• Bankruptcy proceedings and asset recovery
• Claims against directors, including wrongful trading and misfeasance
• Investigating and challenging undervalue transactions
• Fraudulent trading and creditor claims

We work closely with insolvency practitioners, financial advisors, and forensic accountants to ensure a strategic approach. If there’s a way to negotiate a resolution, we’ll find it. If litigation is unavoidable, we’ll be by your side every step of the way.

Our property litigation team has extensive experience handling disputes between landlords and tenants. We represent a wide range of clients, from commercial landlords with large portfolios to private landlords managing residential properties.

We understand the challenges landlords face and are well-versed in complex property law and contractual issues. We regularly assist with disputes involving:

• Tenant default and eviction;
• Possession proceedings and enforcement;
• Recovery of rent arrears;
• Defending disrepair claims;
• Compliance disputes, including tenancy deposit schemes;
• Dilapidation claims;
• Lease renewal and surrender; and
• Squatter eviction.

We also act on behalf of tenants, both commercial and residential, ensuring that their legal rights are protected. Whatever the nature of your dispute, our team is here to help.

Businesses rely on professional advisers to provide accurate and competent guidance, whether in finance, law, construction, or other specialist areas. When that advice is negligent, it can lead to costly mistakes, financial losses, and operational setbacks.

If your business has suffered due to poor professional advice, you may be able to bring a professional negligence claim against the responsible party, often involving their insurer.

Common claims involve:

• Accountants and auditors
• Engineers or architects
• Solicitors or conveyancers
• Surveyors or valuers

Professional negligence claims require in-depth analysis and strategic action. Our Dispute Resolution team has extensive experience in representing businesses, taking a forensic and proactive approach to achieving the best outcome. Contact us to discuss your options.

Property disputes can be disruptive and costly for businesses and landlords, affecting investments, rental income, and long-term planning. Our team specialises in resolving complex property disputes efficiently, allowing you to focus on your business and assets.

We provide strategic advice on all aspects of property litigation, working closely with our Commercial Property and Residential teams to ensure every legal angle is covered.

Our expertise includes:

• Commercial lease renewals and terminations
• Landlord and tenant disputes, including rent recovery and dilapidations
• Adverse possession and boundary disputes
• Property-related negligence claims
• Restrictive covenants and rights of way

Where possible, we aim for early resolution through negotiation and mediation. However, if litigation is necessary, we’ll build a strong case to protect your interests and assets.

We understand the unique challenges faced by social housing providers and landlords. Our expert team advises on all aspects of housing management, regulatory compliance, and dispute resolution.

Our services include:

• Possession claims and eviction proceedings
• Anti-social behaviour injunctions and enforcement
• Leasehold and service charge disputes
• Housing disrepair claims
• Regulatory compliance and governance

We are proud to be recognised as a top-tier law firm in the North of England for Social Housing by The Legal 500. We are trusted by many housing associations, landlords, and local authorities to deliver pragmatic and cost-effective solutions. Whether you need advice on tenancy enforcement or representation in housing litigation, we are here to help.