​​Litigation and
Dispute Resolution

Denise Woodward

Denise Woodward

We are sad to announce the death of Denise Woodward, Consultant Solicitor, on 22nd April 2023.

Denise was a valued member of our Family Law Team and a hugely popular member of staff. Denise will be sorely missed by all her work colleagues and the legal fraternity in Chester and beyond.

Darlene Storrar, Managing Partner, says:

"Denise was an excellent Family Law Solicitor and a highly valued member of our team. Denise was dedicated to her work and her many clients and we will miss her enormously. Denise was always cheerful and engaging. Our thoughts are with her large supportive family at this very sad time."

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Litigation and Dispute Resolution

When you are in a dispute or facing litigation you need an expert on your side

Find A Solicitor

We offer a bespoke service, tailored to the individual needs of our clients. Our experienced Dispute Resolution Team provides fast and efficient advice from pre-action and court proceedings to enforcement action.

We understand that no individual or business welcomes conflict. We can advise you of your legal position and suggest and implement solutions to help avoid litigation and save money. We can evaluate your prospects of success and give consideration to whether there is an alternative course of action which may achieve the result you want. We provide clear, practical advice and focus on the real issues by thinking creatively to find alternative solutions.

Where there is no realistic alternative to litigation, we will pursue your claim in a manner that ensures your commercial and financial interests are protected at all times whilst achieving a speedy resolution. Equally, if a claim is being brought against you, we will assist in a strategic defence and at all times we will provide you with practical and constructive advice to ensure that the course of action taken best suits your needs and resources.

Our services include:

  • Residential Landlord and Tenant (England only)
  • Consumer Contract Disputes
  • Property Disputes including Boundary and Ownership Disputes
  • Defamation

Dispute Resolution Services

Read more about the services our Dispute Resolution Solicitors offer:

Our Dedicated and Knowledgeable Solicitors

If you wish to discuss your situation further with an expert solicitor please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

Make An Enquiry

Kate Naylor

Solicitor and Partner

Lisa Francis

Trainee CILEX

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Small Claim?

A small claim is a claim with a financial value of less than £10,000.  Such claims are dealt with under a simplified and less complex procedure than would otherwise be the case.  Usually, only very limited, fixed costs are recoverable by a successful claimant.

What happens if my claim is only just above the Small Claims Limit?

Claimants need to be wary when issuing a claim just above the small claims limit.  It is possible for the Defendant to make a limited and partial admission at the outset to reduce the sum in dispute below the Small Claims limit.  This may result in the claim being allocated to the small claims track by the District Judge.

If I win, will I get all my costs back?

Usually, costs follow the event in a litigation claim. A successful claimant or a successful defendant will usually be awarded costs. If costs are not agreed between the parties the court rules provide for an assessment process. Experience dictates that even in the best run cases, with tight control of the fees and disbursements, a successful party will usually only be awarded something like 75%-80% of the overall costs claimed. All litigators should bear that in mind and also consider whether, in the event of such an award, the opposing party has or is likely to have the means to pay.

The other side have proposed mediation. Should I accept?

Rejecting an appropriate offer of mediation from an opponent can have costs consequences at the court. If the court considers that the rejection of the offer was unreasonable, then even a successful party may not be awarded all or part of his or her costs. If such an offer is made and is rejected, a thorough explanation of that decision should be made at the time. There will still be a risk of costs sanctions if the court subsequently finds the refusal is unreasonable. Always bear in mind, the assessment as to whether the refusal was reasonable or not will only take place at the end of the case and thus there is always an element of risk in rejecting such an offer.