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Civil dispute resolution, for private clients

What is civil dispute resolution?

At Clarke Willmott, we have considerable expertise in resolving disputes or disagreements between private individuals or a between a private individual and an organisation. The types of disputes we often help with are:

  • Wills, trust or probate disputes
  • Disputes involving property, including:
    • landlord and tenant matters
    • termination of tenancies
    • rent arrears
    • possession proceedings
    • boundary disputes
    • neighbour disputes, easements
    • covenants
    • rights of way and adverse possession
  • Flooding, drainage and water supplies

Talk to our team

If you are faced with a potential dispute, speak to a member of our civil litigation team.

Call 0800 652 8025 Send us an enquiry

Your civil dispute options

Alternative Dispute Resolution

Wherever possible, we recommend using a method of alternative dispute resolution (ADR) before taking the matter to court. There are several options, including round table negotiation, mediation, conciliation, and arbitration.

If you can prevent a lengthy and complex trial proceeding or save yourself the hassle of filling out the court forms it’s always preferable – and will save you time and money.

If ADR is not possible or is unsuccessful, we may have to bring a civil claim through the court system to resolve the dispute. The litigation process isn’t quick or straightforward, but contrary to popular belief, not all cases end up at trial.

How we can help you

Whatever the grounds for a dispute, our civil litigation solicitors understand it can be daunting and stressful for all involved. We support you through every step – keeping you informed of your options and guiding you through 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 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

Why choose Clarke Willmott for civil dispute resolution

  • Exceptional legal expertise focused on achieving the best possible outcome
  • Experts in all mediation methods and courts
  • Balanced, robust approach with clear, practical guidance throughout the process
  • Experienced in bringing and defending civil dispute claims
  • Flexible cost options and guidance on the most cost-effective way to fund your case
  • Leading Legal 500 firm
  • The Law Society’s Lexcel accreditation for compliance and client care standards

‘Clarke Willmott have an outstanding litigation team. They bridge the gap between regional and national, with expert lawyers who can take on everything from planning and property issues in the South West to heavy commercial litigation in London.’

Legal 500 2025

The team are able to swiftly navigate the complex factual background and adopt a pragmatic and commercial approach to securing the client’s interests.”

Chambers 2025

‘The Clarke Willmott team are highly competent and nice people to deal with. They are experts by virtue of lengthy experience.

Legal 500 2025

“Clarke Willmott have a great reputation in the South West. This is a product of their specialist knowledge and their ability to provide commercially-focused solution for their clients.”

Chambers 2025

‘The team is professional, courteous and acts with integrity. They are always there to support clients with a first-class service.’

Legal 500 2025

“Their service levels and responsiveness are a particular strength – they guided the case and were very responsive to queries.”

Chambers 2025

‘Great attention to detail, and committed to achieving the client’s goals.’

Legal 500 2025

The bigger picture was always kept in mind and the desired outcome was the team’s primary focus.

Chambers 2025

Contact a dispute resolution solicitor today

Our specialist civil dispute resolution solicitors based in Birmingham, Bristol, Cardiff, London, Manchester, Southampton and Taunton, are ready to discuss your case. If you are faced with a potential dispute, call a member of our team today on 0800 652 8025 or get in touch online.

Your key contacts

Meet our wider Commercial and Private Client team

With seven offices throughout England and Wales, Clarke Willmott is a national law firm with a local presence. Click to learn more about our wider team of legal professionals and how they can support you.

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