Civil & Commercial Dispute Resolution2026-05-21T15:48:08+01:00

Civil & Commercial Dispute Resolution Solicitors

Whatever the grounds for a dispute, our litigation solicitors understand it can be daunting and stressful for all involved. We will ensure you are fully informed on the options available and will support you through every step of the dispute resolution and litigation process.

Twickenham & Teddington Solicitors

Providing first-class legal advice throughout South West London and Surrey for over 40 years

What is a Civil Dispute?

Civil disputes are disagreements between private individuals or between private individuals and an organisation, or both. The types of civil disputes we often help with are:

What is a Commercial Dispute?

Commercial litigation encompasses any type of legal action where there is corporate involvement. The types of commercial disputes we often help with are:

  • Breach of contract claims
  • Director and/or Shareholder disputes
  • Debt recovery and enforcement
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Alternative Dispute Resolution

Wherever possible, we recommend using a method of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) before taking the matter to court. There are several alternative dispute resolution methods that can be used, including round table negotiations, mediation, conciliation, and arbitration.

If you can prevent a lengthy and complex trial proceeding, that is always preferable –and will save you time and money.

If ADR is not possible or is unsuccessful, you may have to bring an action through the court system to resolve the dispute. The litigation process is not quick or straightforward, but contrary to popular belief, most cases do not end up at trial.

How we can help you

Whatever the grounds for a dispute, our litigation solicitors understand it can be daunting and stressful for all involved. We will ensure you are fully informed on the options available and will support you through every step of the dispute resolution and litigation process, including:

  • Evaluating the strength of your claim and the likely outcomes
  • Ensuring you understand the costs involved and your funding options
  • Liaising with the other parties to fully establish the grounds for the dispute
  • Gathering evidence to substantiate your case
  • Attempting to resolve the dispute before going to court

If litigation is required:

  • Lodging your claim with the appropriate court and serving it to the defendant OR alternatively, lodging your intention to defend a claim
  • Establishing the timetable for proceedings as decided by the court
  • Representing you in court
  • Enforcing a judgement in your favour or lodging an appeal if necessary
Contact Us

Principal Contacts:

Jamie

Jamie Jones

Lisa

Paige Symns

“Jamie and Paige were supportive, very thorough and kept our interests at the forefront throughout the whole proceedings. We couldn’t be happier with the service we received.”

Dispute Resolution Testimonial

“In short, we received from Jamie and Paige a clear description of the situation and a practical course of action to follow…Jamie and Paige showed consummate powers of patience and sensitivity throughout the discussion and we thank them so much for shining such a positive light…Thank you, SRB. You choose your people well.”

Dispute Resolution Testimonial

“Paige was incredible at helping me keep my sanity through a very difficult and tedious litigious process. She was always calm, very helpful and very clear in her instructions. I was so grateful to have her batting in my corner.”

Dispute Resolution Testimonial

“Paige definitely went the extra mile for us over a difficult three year period.”

Dispute Resolution Testimonial

“I have used SRB 3 times and each time the service I have received has been delivered with empathy, helpfulness and professionalism….The requested changes were implemented and the process was smooth. Thank you Paige. Your assistance was greatly appreciated.”

Dispute Resolution Testimonial

“Jamie and the team have been fantastic through a very stressful period and I couldn’t recommend him enough. It was a completely new situation for me to be in and Jamie did a marvellous job of breaking things down and talking them through with me so I had a better understanding of what my options were. Thank you again.”

Dispute Resolution Testimonial

“Paige was exceptional throughout the process. She took time to understand the problem and issue at hand, gave thoughtful and clear advice, and produced an excellent letter to support our case. Her professionalism and courtesy was very much appreciated throughout. I would have no issues recommending her to others, or indeed using her services again myself (although I hope of course my legal disputes are few and far between!).”

Dispute Resolution Testimonial

“I cannot recommend Jamie Jones highly enough. Throughout a rather frustrating case his professionalism, patience, and kindness have been exemplary.”

Dispute Resolution Testimonial

“Jamie was very proactive, knowledgeable and thorough in every detail.”

Dispute Resolution Testimonial

Civil & Commercial Dispute Resolution FAQ

It’s advisable to seek legal advice as soon as the dispute arises. Early legal advice can help prevent escalation, provide clarity on your position, and potentially resolve the issue without needing to go to court. This is especially crucial since both civil and commercial disputes can become more complex and costly over time​.

The duration of a dispute depends on several factors, including the complexity of the matter, the availability of evidence, and the willingness of both parties to settle. Parties that engage in Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR), such as mediation, in an effort to resolve the dispute, can find that their dispute is resolved in a few months.

However, if proceedings are issued and the parties litigate, the process could take many months or even years, especially if the case proceeds to trial​.

Mediation is a voluntary and confidential process, where a neutral third party (called a mediator) assists the parties in dispute to negotiate a settlement. Unlike court proceedings, the mediator doesn’t make a decision, but facilitates communication to reach a mutual agreement. The process can happen either in person or remotely and often resolves disputes faster and more amicably than litigation​.

Preparation is key. You will need to gather all relevant documentation such as contracts, emails, and other evidence, such as photographs. Your solicitor will also work with you to prepare a position statement outlining your case, key points, and areas where you’re willing to compromise​. Your solicitor can also attend the mediation with you in order to advise contemporaneously.

If a settlement is reached during mediation, it becomes legally binding. If one party does not comply, the agreement can be enforced in court by way of a claim for breach of contract. In some cases, the settlement is also incorporated into a court order, which negates the need to bring a claim as the order can be enforced.

Arbitration is another form of ADR where a neutral arbitrator makes a legally binding decision on the dispute. Arbitration is particularly useful when both parties want a quicker, private resolution but can’t agree through negotiation. It tends to be more formal than mediation but less so than court proceedings​.

Disputes involving multiple parties, such as partnership disagreements or complex commercial claims, can be more challenging to resolve. However, methods like mediation or arbitration can still be applied to ensure that all parties’ interests are fairly represented and a binding resolution is reached.

Yes, you should act immediately upon receiving a claim to avoid being at risk of a default judgment. You generally have a limited time to respond, and failing to do so could result in the court ruling against you without a hearing. Our solicitors can advise further as to the timeframe you have to respond to a claim.

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