A legal dispute can affect your finances, your property or the running of your business. Before deciding how to respond, you need to understand the legal position, the evidence and what the available options may mean in practice.
Start with the facts
Etienne considers the documents, the sequence of events and the outcome you need. He assesses the merits of bringing or defending a claim alongside the likely costs and practical consequences. If you have received a demand, summons or application, the date of service and any deadline need attention at the outset.
Settlement and court proceedings
Where a dispute can be settled on appropriate terms, Etienne assists with negotiations and records the agreement clearly. Where proceedings are necessary, he takes carriage of the case and manages the legal process. His work includes Magistrates’ Court and High Court matters, with advocates briefed for court appearances where required.
Know who is responsible for your matter
You remain in direct contact with Etienne. If an advocate, correspondent attorney or another professional is needed, he explains their role and remains responsible for his work on your matter. The proposed scope and work involved are discussed before the instruction proceeds.
Useful questions
A little more clarity.
Does every dispute need to go to court?
No. The appropriate route depends on the facts, the legal position and the other party’s response. Negotiation or settlement may be worth considering before or during proceedings.
Can Etienne assist if I am defending a claim?
Yes. Send the papers and explain when they were served so that Etienne can assess the response and the applicable deadlines.
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