How our litigation solicitors can help
Our litigation solicitors can help resolve complex disputes within the court system. We’ll connect you with a seasoned expert in civil dispute resolution who can provide guidance across most areas of law. Here’s how Lawhive can support you:
Intellectual property (IP) claims | Our team can help resolve disputes over IP rights including patents, trademarks, copyrights and more. They can also support in creating clear resolution strategies like cease and desist letters or court action. |
Employment dispute claims | For employment litigation, our team can support both sides. They're well-versed in disputes like breach of contract, unfair dismissal, discrimination, harassment, non-compete restrictions and more. |
Defamation, libel and slander | Our litigation lawyers can cover all aspects of defamation including libel (permanent) and slander (temporary) claims. They can support either the defence or the accused and guide on the legal requirements to prove in court. |
Personal injury claims | Get expert help with personal injury claims like holiday sickness disputes or accidents at work. Our team can help work out who is responsible, gather evidence and work out compensation. |
Product liability claims | Get guidance when products are defective or may cause injury. Our civil dispute resolution solicitors can support both sides with things like allergy claims, defective medicines, defective electrical products and more. |
Claims against local authorities | Claims against local authorities cover a wide and complex area of law. Our team can assist with various claims involving social services, the Ministry of Justice, HM Courts, tribunal services, and more, providing experienced guidance every step of the way. |
Divorce litigation | Our divorce solicitors specialise in handling complex cases that require skilled litigation. For high-conflict situations, they can provide full legal representation and expertise. |
Contract breaches | Get help with breach of contract claims. Our team can identify the type of breach, support in collecting evidence and suggest appropriate remedies or damages. |
Why choose Lawhive for a dispute resolution solicitor?
At Lawhive, we do things differently. By collaborating with a network of litigation solicitors across the UK, we can match you with the right advisor for your specific needs. Here’s why you might prefer us over a traditional law firm:
Expertise in litigation: Litigation covers lots of complex areas. With a wide network of experienced advisors, you’ll be matched with a skilled solicitor who knows exactly how to help.
Clear, fixed pricing: We believe in full transparency. For every case, we provide an instant, fixed-fee quote - that means no hidden fees and no hourly charges.
Affordable advice: Our services are, on average, up to 50% more affordable than traditional law firms. You'll get an affordable litigation solicitor with the same level of expertise.
Fast support: Get connected with a fast litigation lawyer in up to 48 hours. And typically, it can be as little as just 24 hours.
Alternative dispute resolution services
Civil litigation is often considered a last resort. Ideally, you'll reach an amicable outcome without the need to go to court. Our team of solicitors can guide you on alternative dispute resolution (ADR) methods to help find a solution before the court process. If ADR isn't possible, then you may need to bring a civil claim through the court system.
Here are a few ADR strategies our civil solicitors might suggest:
Mediation is a collaborative process where a neutral mediator helps both parties find a solution. It’s voluntary and non-binding, allowing for more flexible outcomes. A civil solicitor can guide you through the process, ensuring your interests are fully represented. They’ll also help assess any agreements to ensure they’re fair, practical, and legally sound.
Negotiation
Negotiation involves direct discussions between parties to resolve disputes (without third-party involvement). It’s informal and can be a quick, cost-effective way to settle. Your solicitor’s role is to represent your interests, help structure negotiations, and advise on suitable terms that are legally enforceable.
Arbitration
Arbitration is a more formal process where an impartial arbitrator makes a binding decision on a dispute. Often faster and more flexible than court, it’s more frequently used in commercial disputes. A solicitor can prepare your case, present evidence, and ensure your arguments are clearly communicated.
Adjudication
Adjudication is a quicker resolution method often used in construction and contractual disputes, where an adjudicator issues a binding decision. A solicitor can help by preparing your case, presenting evidence, and navigating any legal nuances. They’ll also advise on compliance with adjudication outcomes and may appeal or enforce decisions if necessary.
Recent reviews of our civil litigation lawyers
Review | Rating |
“Mr McAfee was extremely clear with his advice which has resulted in a successful resolution and cancellation of a court case.” | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
“I was very impressed. I am the defendant and the claimant has now opted to go down the mediation route which I am relieved about. I am impressed too with Lawhive contacting me after a suitable pause (nothing happens quickly in legal cases!) to ask if I need any more help.” | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
*All reviews are from real Lawhive clients, though names have been removed for privacy.
How much does a litigation lawyer cost?
Litigation can be an expensive process. The cost of a litigation lawyer will vary depending on the case and its complexity. However, high street law firms might offer roughly between £750 to £5,000 for legal advice alone. With Lawhive, you could save on average up to 50% or more.
Additional costs
Beyond standard legal fees, there could be additional costs based on your specific case. Aside from instructing a solicitor for advice, you might expect to pay for things like:
Court costs: These are administrative costs paid to start a claim. The specific amount varies based on the value but generally, the larger the claim is, the higher the court costs will be.
Experts' fees: Experts play a key role in civil litigation. They provide impartial opinions to help make court decisions fairly. The cost for expert evidence will vary - for example, you might opt for a single joint expert to cover one case.
Disbursements: Disbursements are costs payable to third parties. These might include things like Counsel's fees, hearing fees or even travel and accommodation expenses. These will again all vary depending on the complexity and type of case, though your solicitor can advise you on them ahead of time.
Who pays the costs?
In some cases, successful parties can recover some of their legal costs from the other party. This is known as an award of costs and is made at the court's discretion. However, it’s important to note that this is never guaranteed and it can be unlikely for all costs to be covered.
How does the litigation process work?
There are seven stages to civil litigation cases, though the process may differ depending on the different courts and tribunals in the British legal system. Here is an example of how a your civil litigation matter might play out:
1. Pre-action
The ‘pre-action’ stage takes place before litigation begins. Typically, the claimant must send a ‘letter before claim’ to the potential defendant, detailing the nature of the dispute, a suggested remedy, and a list of key documents related to the claim.
2. The defendant's response
The defendant is given a reasonable timeframe to respond (generally up to 30 days). In an ideal scenario, they’ll agree to the proposed remedy, allowing the dispute to settle without further action. However, if a settlement can't be reached, the claimant may decide to pursue the claim in court.
3. Issuing a claim
The claimant must file specific documents with the court and serve them to the defendant, including a claim form and a statement of case. The defendant(s) must respond under The Civil Procedure Rules 1998.
4. Replying to the defence
In response, the claimant may choose to submit a ‘reply to the defence’ to clarify points raised by the defendant. This exchange allows both parties to better understand each other’s positions before trial.
5. Directions to trial
The court assigns the case to a track (small claims, fast or multi-track) based on complexity, and may require both parties to submit suggested directions. Directions include schedules for disclosure, witness evidence, and other pre-trial steps.
6. Going to trial
When a case proceeds to trial, each side’s legal representative presents their arguments and evidence. A barrister or solicitor typically represents the claimant, while the defendant’s lawyer presents their defence or counterclaim.
7. Judgment, appeals and costs
After the trial, the judge issues a judgment or ruling based on the arguments and evidence. In simple cases, the judge may decide immediately, but in complex cases, the decision may take days or weeks.
Common questions
What is litigation?
Litigation is the process of taking a dispute to court to resolve it. Litigation can cover a wide range of legal areas including breach of contract, personal injury claims, defamation cases and more.
What does a litigation solicitor do?
A litigation solicitor helps resolve legal disputes between individuals or organizations. Solicitors file court cases, handle paperwork, and collect witness statements if needed. They prepare all the documents the court needs before and after the trial. In some cases, solicitors might also represent clients in court for some parts of the case.
What’s the difference between commercial and civil litigation?
In short, civil litigation involves individuals whereas commercial litigation involves businesses. Commercial cases tend to be more complex, more expensive and can take longer to sort out.
Can I speak to a litigation solicitor online?
Yes, with Lawhive you can consult with an online litigation solicitor. You'll be able to speak to your advisor over the phone, via email or on a video call.
How do I find the best litigation solicitor?
We'll help you find the best litigation solicitor for you. Our legal assessment team will match you with an experienced advisor who can take on your case.
What are the steps in a legal dispute?
In civil litigation, there are typically seven steps: pre-action, the defendant's response, issuing a claim, replying to the defence, directions to trial, going to trial, and the final judgment.
