Commercial Litigation Solicitors

Our services

Our commercial litigation team handles all sorts of business disputes, so you can rest assured you’re working with specialists who’ve seen it all before.

• Contract disputes – when agreements break down or someone doesn’t hold up their end of the deal, we’ll step in and get things moving. We’ll look at your contract, work out where you stand, and fight for what you deserve, whether that means enforcing the terms, claiming damages, or hammering out a settlement that protects your business.
• Partnership and shareholder disputes – these can tear a business apart if they’re not sorted properly. We work with partners, directors, and shareholders to resolve disagreements over profit sharing, who gets to make decisions, breaches of duty, or how someone exits the business. We’re pragmatic when we can be and firm when we need to be.
• Debt recovery – chasing money you’re owed is frustrating, especially when you’ve done everything right on your end. We pursue outstanding debts through negotiation, statutory demands, and county court proceedings if necessary, helping you recover what’s rightfully yours while keeping professional relationships intact where possible.
• Professional negligence – When accountants, surveyors, solicitors, or other professionals make errors that cost your business money, we’ll hold them to account. We’ll assess whether you have grounds to claim, gather the evidence needed, and pursue compensation for your losses.
• Restrictive covenant disputes – If a former employee breaches their non-compete clause or spills confidential information, we’ll move fast. We’ll enforce your rights through injunctions and damages claims to protect your competitive edge.
• Property and landlord disputes – From lease disagreements and dilapidations claims to business rates challenges and tenant issues, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re a landlord or tenant, we’ll protect your property interests and resolve disputes that affect your premises.
• Franchise disputes – Conflicts between franchisors and franchisees over territory rights, quality standards, fees, or contract breaches can escalate quickly. We understand franchise relationships and work to find solutions that preserve business value where possible.

How the Commercial Litigation Process Works

We know that taking legal action feels daunting, especially when you’re already dealing with the stress of a business dispute. Here’s what you can expect when you work with us:

1. Initial chat and case assessment
   We’ll sit down with you, by video, phone, or in person at your home or office, to understand exactly what’s happened. You’ll leave this meeting with clarity about your legal position, the likely costs involved, and the realistic outcomes you can expect. This typically happens within 48 hours of your first contact with us.
2. Pre-action protocol and attempts to settle
   Before issuing court proceedings, we’re legally required to follow pre-action protocols. We’ll send a detailed letter of claim to the other side, giving them a chance to respond and potentially settle. Many disputes resolve at this stage, saving you the time and expense of court proceedings. This phase usually takes 14-30 days depending on the complexity of your case.
3. Court proceedings
   If settlement isn’t possible, we’ll prepare and issue your claim through the court system. We’ll handle all the legal paperwork, ensure deadlines are met, and keep you informed at every stage. Court proceedings follow strict timetables, typically taking 6-12 months from issue to trial, though many cases settle before reaching the final hearing.
4. Alternative dispute resolution (ADR)
   At any point in the process, we may recommend mediation or other ADR methods. These approaches often achieve better outcomes than court battles, preserving business relationships and reducing costs. We’ll advise you on the right time to consider ADR and represent you throughout any negotiations.
5. Trial and enforcement
   If your case goes to trial, we’ll prepare thoroughly, instruct barristers where needed, and present your case with confidence. After judgment, we’ll help you enforce any award or comply with any obligations placed on your business. Our job isn’t finished until you’ve received what you’re owed.

Throughout this process, we’ve learned that clients value regular communication above everything else. You’ll have direct access to your solicitor, and we’ll explain developments in plain English. No legal jargon, just clear updates about where things stand.

Why Choose Farleys Commercial Litigation Solicitors

Recognised expertise: With 40 years of experience serving businesses across the North West, we’ve built a reputation for getting results without unnecessary drama. We’re recognised in the Legal 500 for our commercial litigation expertise, but what really sets us apart is how we work with you.

Clear, straight-talking communication – You’ll never get false promises or inflated expectations from us. If your case is strong, we’ll tell you. If it’s not, we’ll be equally honest. This approach has earned us long-standing relationships with clients who value solicitors they can trust for a realistic assessment.

We understand business, not just law – Our team includes solicitors who’ve advised everyone from sole traders to multi-million-pound companies. We know that litigation decisions need to make commercial sense, not just legal sense. Before recommending any course of action, we’ll consider the impact on your cash flow, operations, and long-term business strategy.

Experienced commercial litigation solicitors: Our team is led by experienced solicitors who’ve handled high-value disputes in the High Court, county courts, and through arbitration. We combine smart strategy with tough advocacy when your case demands it.

Offices across North West England: Our offices in Burnley, Blackburn, Manchester, Preston, Rawtenstall and Wigan mean we’re never far away for face-to-face meetings. But we also recognise that busy business owners need flexibility. We’re equally comfortable meeting at your premises, conducting video conferences, or providing advice by phone and email.