HomeSMEs, directors & shareholdersBusiness Disputes

Introduction

Facing a business dispute can be stressful and disruptive. At Francis Wilks & Jones, we specialise in providing expert legal support to help businesses resolve disputes effectively and efficiently. Our team of experienced lawyers is here to guide you through every step of the process.

Types of disputes we handle

Our specialist legal team can help you achieve resolution in the event of a business dispute. We have experience in dealing with a range of contract disputes and other types of business dispute including:

  • Non-performance or partial performance
  • Rights to terminate a contract
  • Breach of sale and/or supply of goods and services agreements
  • Agency, distribution, and franchise agreement-related disputes
  • Warranty and indemnity claims
  • Retention of title clauses
  • Exclusion and limitation clauses
  • Contract misrepresentation
  • Disputes involving consultancy agreements
  • Cross-border disputes
  • Retention of title disputes
  • Breach of confidence claims
  • Professional negligence
  • Franchise claims
  • How we resolve disputes

Our emphasis is always on trying to resolve a dispute without formal legal proceedings.

Alternative Business Dispute Resolution

We will explore whether the claim can be settled using a form of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR).  Options include

  1. Without prejudice discussions. Often picking up the phone and exploring possible settlement with the other party can lead to a settlement of a claim.
  2. Offers to settle. A sensible offer to settle (often made early on) can lead to an early resolution of a claim.  We can explore this with you and see if it is appropriate.
  3. Mediation. Sometimes formal mediation is required to resolve a business dispute. We have 20+ years of settling claims at formal mediations.  
  4. Arbitration: A contract might require a formal arbitration of a dispute. If so, our team has ample experience dealing with these formal procedures.
  5. Expert Determination and Early Neutral Evaluation: Whilst less common, should the need arise, we can also ensure these settlement options are explored or adopted.

Commercial Litigation in Business Disputes

Sometimes settlement cannot be achieved and formal legal proceedings are issued. Whether Claimant or Defendant we are experts at all stages of the litigation process and able to take a case all the way to trial if needed.

Our Expertise

Whatever your dispute, we can help through our extensive knowledge and experience in:

  • Understanding why contract disputes arise
  • Assessing quantum and damages
  • Considering limitation
  • Reviewing and advising on contract dispute resolution clauses
  • Considering alternatives to litigation

Contact Us

If you are dealing with a business dispute, contact our expert team at Francis Wilks & Jones. We provide confidential consultations and tailored legal advice to help you navigate through your dispute efficiently.

Key contacts

Andrew Carter

Andrew Carter

Partner

Gemma Newing

Gemma Newing

Senior Associate

Stephen Downie

Stephen Downie

Partner

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Case studies

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