Civil litigation is the method by which people resolve disputes. No one wants to get involved in litigation. Our task is to make your visit to civil litigation as painless, worry-free and inexpensive as possible.
We achieve this by
• Being approachable
• giving you frank advice as to your prospects of success at an early stage
• considering the position of your opponent
• telling you about developments in your case
• warning you about the costs which are being incurred.
• Efficient use of the most modern technology
"Why might I want a lawyer?"
Common scenarios:
I want my house back!
I am owed money!
A unfair claim has been made against me!
"I would only use a lawyer if I intend to go to court"
This is no longer the case. There are a variety of tools which we use in order to achieve the best possible outcome for our clients. These might include negotiation mediation. But in the end, if a stronger response is required we are uniquely placed to help you to bring your case to court.
"Civil litigation is a lottery and only the lawyers have the winning ticket"
Civil litigation is like any game. There are rules.
The Rules
These Rules are a new procedural code with the overriding objective of enabling the court to deal with cases justly. That objective is summarised by applying rules with the aims of:
• ensuring that the parties are on an equal footing;
• saving expense;
• dealing with the case in ways which are proportionate to the amount of money involved
to the importance of the case; to the complexity of the issues; and to the financial position
of each party;
• ensuring that it is dealt with as quickly as possible and fairly; and
• allotting to it an appropriate share of the court's resources, while taking into account the need to allot resources to other cases.
Whereas before the parties to any case had most control over the procedure that responsibility has passed to the courts. The court can control the timing, the evidence to be heard and the costs of most court cases.
Failure to discuss claims with your opponent before issuing proceedings may well result in a party being penalised by being required to pay more legal costs than before. Also, the courts will try to encourage agreement to be reached wherever possible. Parties will be expected to co-operate fully with this process even if it appears to delay progress.
"I don’t want to spend lots of time and money on a case which isn’t worth it"
Theses days cases are allocated to a particular type of procedure depending upon a variety of factors such as
• the financial value, if any, of the claim or counterclaim
• the remedy being sought
• the likely complexity of the facts, law or evidence
• the number of parties or likely parties
Small claims track
If a modest sum is involved or the case is simple a quick cheap and straightforward procedure is available to help you. We can guide you in the right direction and give you just enough help to enable you to deal with the case on your own.
Fast claims track
If your case requires more involvement from us we can ensure that it is dealt with speedily and thoroughly.
Multi-track
We also have the resources and the in-depth experience to handle the most complicated claims either in the county Court high Court or Superior courts.
"Can I afford a lawyer?"
Can you afford not to have one?
The law is complex and fast changing. There are often traps for the unwary. Courts have ever more power. You need someone to look out just for you. Lawyers are uniquely independent. Solicitors are governed by a strict Code of Practice to ensure that the client’s interests are always put first.
"How do I pay for a lawyer?"
No win no fee - Explanation
Legal aid
Contingency fees
Private paying
