Dispute Resolution

Litigation & ADR

Legal disputes can cause financial loss, interrupt business operations, and damage relationships and reputations. Getting professional advice before a dispute escalates can help to minimise time and costs involved, avoid litigation and expedite the resolution process.

Should you or your business become involved in a legal dispute, consideration should be given to all resolution options available. Understanding the legal issues involved, as well as your rights and the possible outcomes is essential and will allow you to deal with the dispute effectively, and minimise unnecessary cost and stress.

We can provide advice and guidance to help resolve a range of legal disputes including:

  • Business and commercial matters
  • Debt recovery and contractual disputes
  • Will disputes and family provision claims
  • Leasing and property disputes
  • Property settlements

If a dispute does arise, your options may include Alternative Dispute Resolution or commencing Court proceedings:

Alternative Dispute Resolution

Many disputes can be resolved through negotiation, using processes such as mediation, rather than going to court. Any agreement reached can be formalised in legally binding terms of settlement.

Dispute resolution has a number of advantages and can often result in a quicker, more flexible outcome and can save costs and help to preserve a relationship between the parties, where they have ongoing personal or commercial arrangements.

Court proceedings

Sometimes it is not possible to resolve a dispute via alternative dispute resolution and your matter may proceed to Court. We can assist you in assessing your case and advise on the likely prospects of success, as well as the pros and cons of commencing litigation or defending proceedings.

Litigation refers to commencing legal proceedings with the aim of resolving a disputed matter with the court’s assistance. A civil court dispute generally arises when two or more parties are unable to resolve a matter concerning their respective legal rights and obligations. The nature and value of these matters can vary and accordingly, different courts (and tribunals) have been established based on the type of dispute and value of a claim.

Litigation requires careful preparation and compliance with relevant court processes. It is important to make an informed decision when determining whether to start or defend court proceedings.

If you need any assistance contact one of our lawyers at [email protected] or call 03 9489 2488 for a no-obligation discussion regarding your matter.