Helping Individuals and Businesses Resolve Disputes Across Hampshire
Legal disputes can arise unexpectedly and often create significant pressure for both individuals and businesses. But whether the issue involves a property disagreement, unpaid debt, contract dispute, professional negligence claim or commercial disagreement, obtaining specialist legal advice at an early stage can often improve the chances of a successful resolution. At Bonallack & Bishop, our Hampshire litigation and dispute resolution solicitors help clients throughout Hampshire resolve disputes efficiently and cost-effectively. We advise clients from our Andover office and represent individuals and businesses across the county.
Our focus is always on achieving practical results while keeping legal costs proportionate to the issues involved.
Looking for help with a dispute? Call our highly experienced litigation and dispute resolution solicitors on Andover 01264 364433 for FREE initial phone advice – no strings attached.
Please note, you may not want to instruct a solicitor with regard to any non-personal injury small claims under £10,000 – for the simple reason that you cannot normally claim your legal costs back from the other side, even if you win.
Experienced Hampshire Dispute Resolution Solicitors
Disputes are rarely identical. Some can be resolved quickly through negotiation. However, others require mediation, formal legal proceedings or court action.
Our experienced legal team can help by:
- Reviewing the facts of the dispute
- Assessing the strengths and weaknesses of your case
- Explaining your legal options
- Protecting your position
- Negotiating settlements
- Conducting litigation where necessary
We provide straightforward advice designed to help clients make informed decisions.
What Is Litigation?
Litigation is the process of resolving disputes through the courts. However, court proceedings are only one aspect of dispute resolution. Fortunately, many disputes are resolved through:
- Negotiation
- Mediation
- Arbitration
- Settlement discussions
- Alternative dispute resolution
The courts increasingly encourage parties to explore settlement opportunities wherever possible before proceeding to trial.
Commercial and Business Disputes
Hampshire has a large and diverse business community. Commercial disputes can arise for many reasons and often require prompt action to minimise disruption.
We regularly advise on a range of business disputes including:
- Partnership disputes
- Shareholder disputes
- Director disputes
- Business ownership disputes
- Contractual disagreements
- Professional negligence claims
- Debt recovery claims
Our solicitors understand the commercial pressures faced by businesses and focus on achieving practical solutions.
Contract Disputes
Contracts form the foundation of many business and personal relationships. Disputes may arise where one party believes the other has failed to perform their obligations.
Examples include:
- Breach of contract claims
- Service agreement disputes
- Supplier disputes
- Customer disputes
- Construction disputes
- Consumer claims
Our solicitors can help pursue or defend claims depending on your circumstances.
Property Disputes
Property disputes are among the most common forms of civil litigation. And our specialist property litigators regularly advise on a wide variety of property related issues including:
- Boundary disputes
- Rights of way disputes
- Easement disputes
- Restrictive covenant disputes
- Access disputes
- Trespass claims
- Property ownership disagreements
However, early legal advice can often prevent these kind of disputes becoming more complex and costly.
Debt Recovery
Recovering unpaid business debts quickly is often essential for maintaining healthy cash flow.
Our team can assist with a range of debt collection work:
- Pre-action correspondence
- County Court proceedings
- Enforcement action
- Defending debt claims
- Settlement negotiations
And remember – prompt action frequently improves the prospects of recovery the money that belongs to you.
But don’t forget, you normally cannot claim your legal costs back from the other side in any non-personal injury small claims under £10,000 even if you win.
Professional Negligence Claims
When professional advisers make serious mistakes, the consequences can be significant. These kind of claims may arise against a variety of professionals – the most common examples include the following;
- Solicitors
- Accountants
- Surveyors
- Architects
- Financial advisers
Our solicitors can advise whether a claim exists and the options available to recover losses.
Alternative Dispute Resolution
Many disputes can be resolved more quickly and economically through alternative dispute resolution (ADR). This may include:
- Negotiation
- Mediation
- Arbitration
ADR can often reduce costs and allow the parties greater control over the outcome.
Why Instruct Bonallack & Bishop?
Clients throughout Hampshire choose our dispute resolution team because we provide:
- Clear and practical advice
- Experienced litigation solicitors
- Commercially focused solutions
- Realistic assessments of claims
- Support from initial advice through to trial
We understand that legal disputes can be stressful and aim to make the process as straightforward as possible.
Hampshire Litigation and Dispute Resolution Solicitors – FAQ
What is a commercial dispute?
A commercial dispute is a disagreement arising from a business relationship. Common examples include contract disputes, shareholder disputes, partnership disputes, unpaid invoices and disagreements between businesses.
Can a solicitor help recover an unpaid debt?
Yes. A solicitor can assist with debt recovery by sending formal correspondence, negotiating payment arrangements, issuing court proceedings where necessary and taking enforcement action if a judgement is obtained.
What is a shareholder dispute?
A shareholder dispute is a disagreement between the owners of a company. These disputes may involve decision-making, ownership rights, profit distribution or the future management of the business.
What happens if a contract is breached?
If one party fails to comply with a contract, the other party may have a legal claim. Remedies can include compensation, enforcement of contractual obligations or termination of the agreement.
Can business disputes be resolved without court proceedings?
Yes. Many commercial disputes are resolved through negotiation, mediation or other forms of alternative dispute resolution, avoiding the cost and uncertainty of a trial.
How long does commercial litigation take?
The timescale varies depending on the complexity of the dispute and whether settlement can be achieved. Some cases settle within a few months, while others may take considerably longer.
What is professional negligence?
Professional negligence occurs when a professional adviser fails to meet the standard of care expected of them and causes financial loss as a result. Claims commonly arise against solicitors, accountants, surveyors and financial advisers.
What is mediation in a business dispute?
Mediation involves an independent mediator helping the parties negotiate a settlement. It is confidential, flexible and often significantly less expensive than litigation.
Can I claim legal costs from the other side?
The court may order the unsuccessful party to contribute towards the successful party’s legal costs. However, the amount recovered will depend on the circumstances and the court’s decision.
When should I seek legal advice about a business dispute?
You should seek legal advice as soon as a dispute becomes apparent. Early advice can help preserve evidence, protect your legal position and increase the chances of achieving a favourable outcome.
Contact Our Hampshire Litigation and Dispute Resolution Solicitors
If you are involved in a dispute and would like practical legal advice, contact Bonallack & Bishop today.
Our Hampshire litigation and dispute resolution solicitors can help you understand your legal position and work towards the best possible outcome.

