All claims are issued to the County Court.

1. Claims less than £5,000.

Normally no legal costs are reasonable from your opponent other than the fixed issue costs and Court fees.

Proceed to arbitration or the Small Claims Court (there are two levels of service)

(i) You attend Court and represent yourself but we assist you with the proceedings and written support/advice

Fixed charge - £500 plus VAT and disbursements (including Agent’s fees and Court fees)

(ii) We act throughout and represent you at Court

2. Claims exceeding £5,000

Costs are recoverable from your opponent in successful cases. We charge on an hourly rate up to an agreed ceiling depending on the level of the claim and its complexity.

In appropriate cases where there is no defence we will apply to the Court for Summary Judgment prior to trial.

In disputed cases it is our objective to:

• Resolve issues quickly
• Obtain Summary Judgment where there is no defence - i.e. bounced cheque claims
• Negotiate settlements on favourable terms
• Avoid extensive legal costs and the cost of your time
• Where settlement cannot be achieved by negotiator - to arrange for mediation by either a CEDR or ADR accredited mediator within 3 weeks
• Be realistic and to provide an early risk assessment
• In appropriate cases you can apply for Post Event Insurance to insure against the risk of paying our fees and your opponent’s fees