In relation to disputes (of any nature) my usual course of action is to ask you to send me a synopsis of the case by e-mail so as I can see if it is something that I can likely help you with. I do not charge for this aspect of the case, nor do I charge if a short initial consultation seems necessary. If the case looks suitable then I will issue you with a client care letter setting out my terms of work and I will usually ask you to get together all the documentation that I may require in order to properly advise you. I will then advise you either in person or in writing as to the strengths and weaknesses of your case and the legal hurdles involved in pursuing it.

If your case is a small one and I think it sensible I may help you prepare all of the court forms and pleadings to enable you to deal with the case yourself, or perhaps to deal with the administration of the case before engaging me to do the final hearing. This system is only really suitable for small, straight-forward cases and I do not generally like working this way with substantial disputes and may decline to do so.

If the dispute is more involved then, having advised you fully as to your prospects of success and likely costs in pursuing it, I will often advise that a solicitor is brought on board to deal with the administration of the case. If this is the case then I will prepare the necessary court documents (if appropriate) and a written opinion fully setting out the issues and tactics in proceeding so as the solicitor is able to “pick up the reins” quickly and with the minimum of delay or cost. I will usually be able to recommend an appropriate solicitor to deal with the case. Having done so the solicitor will periodically revert to me for advice as the case proceeds and to attend any court hearings that arise.

I am happy to advise on an ad-hoc basis in relation to specific contracts or business arrangements that you are thinking of entering into, or to draft such a contract or your standard terms and conditions. This sort of work is usually best undertaken by sending me an e-mail setting out the proposed arrangement, I will then ask for any necessary documentation before inviting you to chambers (or your offices) to discuss the issue. You will be advised of the likely cost of such a consultation in advance.