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If you’re bringing or defending a claim in a civil dispute, our lawyers can robustly support you in court.
Our civil litigation solicitors provide expert advice for non-criminal and non-commercial disputes. Whether you need to recover money, enforce your rights, or protect your reputation, we’re here every step of the way.
Contact our experienced team for strong legal representation or assistance resolving things out of court.
What is civil litigation?
Civil litigation involves legal disputes between two private parties, where one party brings a claim against another party. ‘Civil’ disputes relate to non-criminal and non-commercial disputes. For example, the below:
- Breach of contract
- Debt recovery
- Property disputes
- Neighbour disputes
- Intellectual Property disputes
Often, the claimant (the party bringing the claim) will seek monetary compensation from the defendant.
‘Litigation’ refers to disputes that go to court. Our civil litigation lawyers can guide you through the UK court system or suggest alternatives to help you avoid a lengthy or expensive court process altogether.
Related civil litigation Services
The Civil Litigation Process
Civil litigation in England and Wales follows the Civil Procedure Rules (CPR). Here’s how it usually works:
- Pre-action: Before issuing a claim, parties try to resolve the matter by exchanging information.
- Issuing a claim: If the dispute can’t be resolved, the claimant must complete a formal claim form and a particulars of claim. This should set out the facts of the case, the legal basis, and what compensation they want.
- Defence or admission: The defendant can admit the claim, deny it, or prepare their defence.
- Case management: Once the defence is filed, the court assigns the case to a track (small claims, fast track, intermediate track, or multi-track) depending on the value of the claim and complexity of the dispute.
- CMC hearing: A Case Management Conference (CMC) outlines the steps and deadlines leading up to trial. The court also considers legal costs for both parties, i.e. how much they plan to spend.
- Disclosure: For fairness and transparency, parties exchange documents relevant to the case.
- Giving evidence: Witness statements may be used to support documents, containing factual evidence from witnesses. Skilled experts can also give impartial advice in some cases.
- Pre-trial review: An administrative hearing where the court ensures parties have complied with deadlines and any court orders, fixed a trial date, and finalised the issues to be decided on at trial.
- Trial: If the case isn’t resolved, it goes to trial. The court will hear both sides (usually presented by barristers) and decide on the outcome, awarding damages and determining who pays legal costs.
- Enforcement: If the party who has been awarded damages and/or costs does not receive payment from the other party within the set timeframe, it can ask the court to enforce the judgment.
What to Expect From Our Civil Litigation Solicitors?
We act for both claimants and defendants in civil litigation claims, both before and during the court process. Court proceedings should be used as a last resort, but we have a robust track record in the courtroom.
Before going to court
Our experienced team offer straightforward, practical advice for resolving civil disputes out of court. We can give you an honest evaluation of your claim or defence, and clearly explain options and likely outcomes.
We can talk to the other party on your behalf, gather evidence, and ensure you know all costs involved.
If the matter goes to court
At TV Edwards, we understand how stressful going to court can be. You can trust our lawyers to be patient, competent, and transparent about costs and timeframes for your case. If your case goes to court, we can:
- Initiate court proceedings on your behalf
- Correspond with the court and the other party
- Guide you through each step of the court procedure
- Draft pleadings and prepare witness statements
- Instruct counsel and represent you in court
We’re here to make a complex (and often expensive) process as smooth and cost-effective as possible.
Why Choose TV Edwards?
- Highly ranked in legal directories – Recognised by Legal 500 and Chambers UK
- Proven success – A track record of representing and getting compensation for clients
- Cost-effective solutions – We try to resolve civil disputes out of court where possible
- Client-first approach – Clear, honest legal advice from start to finish, tailored to you
Client Testimonials
Civil Litigation Frequently Asked Questions
What counts as a civil dispute?
A civil dispute is a legal disagreement between individuals or organisations that doesn’t involve a criminal offence. Common examples include breach of contract, property disagreements, or unpaid debts.
What is the civil litigation process in the UK?
Civil litigation follows a structured process including pre-action, issuing a claim, submitting a defence, managing evidence, and possibly going to trial. The goal is to resolve the case through a court judgment.
What are common types of civil cases?
Typical civil cases include breach of contract, landlord-tenant disputes, and disputes over land or property.
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