If you are involved in a disagreement that may lead to financial loss, reputational damage, or business disruption, consulting a litigation lawyer early can help protect your interests. Whether you need to initiate legal action or defend against a claim, our experienced team can guide you through your options.

Litigation generally follows these steps:

• Pre-litigation negotiations – Attempting to resolve the dispute before formal legal proceedings.
• Filing a claim – If unresolved, the dispute moves to court, and a formal claim is lodged.
• Defence and pleadings – The opposing party files a defence, and both sides present legal arguments.
• Discovery – Exchange of relevant documents and evidence.
• Pre-trial procedures – Settlement discussions, mediation, or further legal steps.
• Trial and judgment – If the case proceeds to trial, the court hears arguments and makes a ruling.
• Appeals (if applicable) – Either party may appeal the decision if there are legal grounds to do so.

Yes, most disputes are settled before they reach the courtroom. Mediation and direct negotiation can often lead to quicker and more cost-effective resolutions. We always explore these options first to save you time and money.

The timeframe varies depending on the complexity of the dispute and whether it goes to court. Simple matters may be resolved in weeks or months, while litigation can take a year or longer. Early legal intervention can often speed up the process and lead to faster settlements.

We assist with a wide range of commercial disputes, including:

• Contract disputes – Breaches of agreements between businesses or individuals.
• Debt recovery – Pursuing unpaid invoices or defending against unjust claims.
• Lease disputes – Issues between landlords and tenants in commercial properties.
• Intellectual property disputes – Protection of trademarks and copyright.
• Partnership and shareholder disputes – Conflicts within companies or joint ventures.

If someone owes you money and refuses to pay, we can help by:

• Sending formal demand letters.
• Negotiating repayment arrangements.
• Initiating court proceedings if necessary.
• Enforcing judgments, such as garnishing wages or seizing assets.

Acting quickly is crucial, as debts become harder to recover over time.

If your commercial lease is being violated—whether due to unpaid rent, property damage, or an unreasonable landlord—we can help enforce your rights. We handle:

• Lease enforcement actions.
• Negotiations for lease modifications or early termination.
• Dispute resolution through VCAT (Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal), mediation or court if necessary.

In many cases, the successful party can claim legal costs from the losing side. However, courts have discretion, and full cost recovery is not always guaranteed. We can advise on cost-effective strategies to maximize your chances of recovering legal expenses.

Do not ignore it. A legal demand or court summons requires immediate attention. Contact us as soon as possible to:

• Assess the claim and determine your legal position.
• Respond appropriately to avoid default judgments.
• Explore settlement options or prepare a defence if litigation is unavoidable.

Litigation costs vary based on the complexity of the case. We offer flexible fee structures, including:

• Fixed fees for certain services, such as initial consultations and demand letters.
• Hourly rates for complex litigation.
• Alternative fee arrangements where possible.

We will discuss costs with you upfront so you can make informed decisions.