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Resolving Disputes with Clarity, Confidence & Expertise

When facing a civil dispute, having experienced legal representation can make all the difference. At Fisher Jones Greenwood, our dedicated civil litigation solicitors bring over 40 years of expertise to every case, providing practical solutions and peace of mind during challenging times.  

We understand that civil disputes can be stressful and disruptive to your life. That’s why we focus on resolving your matter efficiently, effectively, and with the utmost professionalism.

For support, contact us via our online enquiry form or call 0845 543 5700.  

Civil Litigation Services We Offer

Our specialist team advises and represents clients across a wide range of civil disputes, from personal injury claims to complex commercial disagreements. Whether your matter is straightforward or highly contested, we focus on reaching the right outcome — efficiently and professionally.

Wills, Inheritance & Contentious Probate

Disputes over a loved one’s estate can be emotionally difficult as well as legally complex. Our solicitors provide sensitive yet robust representation in contentious probate matters, including challenges to the validity of a Will, claims under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975, executor disputes, and disagreements over the distribution of an estate. We work to protect your interests while keeping proceedings as constructive as possible.

Property Litigation

Property disputes can arise in many forms — between landlords and tenants, neighbours, or developers and contractors. Our property litigation solicitors advise on boundary and access disputes, landlord and tenant disagreements, dilapidations claims, and enforcement of property rights. We aim to resolve matters efficiently, whether through negotiation, mediation, or court proceedings where necessary.

Professional Negligence

When a professional — such as a solicitor, accountant, surveyor, or financial adviser — fails to meet the standard of care you were entitled to expect, the consequences can be serious. Our professional negligence solicitors advise clients on claims against a range of professionals, assessing the merits of your case clearly and pursuing recovery of your losses wherever a strong case exists.

Employment Disputes

Employment disputes can range from unfair dismissal and wrongful termination to discrimination, harassment, and unpaid wages. Our employment law solicitors provide clear advice on your rights and options, representing individuals and businesses in Employment Tribunal proceedings and in settlement negotiations. We handle each case with the discretion and professionalism the situation demands.

Personal Injury Claims

Personal injury claims cover a wide spectrum of circumstances — from road traffic accidents and injuries at work to slips, trips, and accidents in public places. Our solicitors guide you through the claims process, helping you recover damages for injury, loss of earnings, and associated costs. No Win No Fee arrangements are available for most personal injury matters, meaning no upfront legal fees and complete transparency about costs from the outset.

Building & Construction Disputes

Construction and building disputes involving defective work, payment disagreements, or contractual breaches require specialist knowledge. Our solicitors protect your property interests and resolve conflicts between homeowners, contractors, and developers — through negotiation, adjudication, or litigation as the situation demands.

Consumer & Debt Disputes

From faulty goods and services to debt recovery and defence, we protect your consumer rights and provide strategic advice on financial disputes. Whether you are pursuing or defending a claim, our team works to achieve the most cost-effective resolution.

Actions Against Police & Public Authorities

We have specialist expertise in holding public bodies accountable when they fail to meet their legal obligations or abuse their powers. If you have been subjected to unlawful detention, excessive force, or other misconduct by a public authority, our solicitors will pursue your claim with determination.

Mediation Services

Mediation is often the fastest and most cost-effective way to resolve a civil dispute. Our qualified mediators facilitate constructive dialogue between parties, helping reach mutually acceptable solutions without the expense and uncertainty of court proceedings.

How Our Civil Litigation Process Works

1. Initial Consultation We start with a thorough assessment of your situation, explaining your legal options clearly and honestly. We will give you a realistic view of the likely outcome and the costs involved — so you can make an informed decision before committing to any course of action.

2. Pre-Action Steps Before proceedings begin, we take all appropriate pre-action steps: gathering evidence, instructing experts where needed, and engaging with the other party through formal pre-action correspondence. Resolving disputes at this stage saves time and cost for everyone involved.

3. Negotiation & Alternative Dispute Resolution Many civil disputes settle before reaching a courtroom. We explore all available routes — including mediation and without-prejudice negotiation — to reach the best outcome at the earliest opportunity.

4. Litigation & Court Representation Where court proceedings are necessary, our skilled advocates represent you confidently across all court levels. We prepare your case thoroughly, manage all procedural requirements, and keep you informed at every stage.

5. Resolution & Enforcement Once a settlement or judgment is reached, we assist with enforcement where required — ensuring the outcome you have achieved translates into practical results.

Why Choose Fisher Jones Greenwood for Civil Litigation?

  • Over 40 years of experience advising individuals and businesses on civil disputes across Essex and London
  • Recognised by The Legal 500 — independently researched recognition of our expertise
  • No Win No Fee options available for most personal injury claims
  • Offices across Essex and London — in Billericay, Braintree, Chelmsford, Clacton-on-Sea, Colchester, Sudbury, and London — for accessible, face-to-face support
  • Full-spectrum civil litigation — from personal injury and contentious probate to professional negligence and employment disputes, all under one roof
  • Plain-speaking advice — we explain your options clearly, without jargon, so you can make confident decisions

Contact Our Civil Litigation Solicitors Today  

Let us help you navigate your civil dispute with confidence and clarity.  

With offices strategically located across Essex—including Billericay, Braintree, Chelmsford, Clacton-on-Sea, Colchester, and Sudbury — and in London, we are always within reach to provide tailored assistance that meets your specific needs.  

Contact us via our online enquiry form or call 0845 543 5700 for a guaranteed response.  

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Contact A Solicitor Today

For more than four decades, Fisher Jones Greenwood has provided expert legal advice to individuals and businesses throughout Essex, Suffolk, and London. Our dedicated team of solicitors is committed to delivering practical solutions for your legal matters. Contact us on 08455 435 700 or via our online enquiry form to schedule a consultation.

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Civil Disputes FAQs

What is civil litigation?

Civil litigation refers to the legal process of resolving disputes between individuals, businesses, or organisations through the court system. Unlike criminal cases, civil litigation typically involves seeking compensation or specific performance rather than criminal penalties.  

Common examples include personal injury claims, contractual disputes, and property disagreements. 

How long do I have to make a civil claim?

Time limits (known as limitation periods) vary depending on the type of claim: 

  • Personal injury claims: Generally, 3 years from the date of injury or from when you became aware of the injury 
  • Professional negligence: 6 years from the date of negligence or 3 years from when you became aware of it 
  • Contract disputes: Usually 6 years from the date of breach 
  • Property damage: 6 years from when the damage occurred. It’s crucial to seek legal advice promptly, as there are exceptions to these timeframes and missing the deadline typically means losing your right to claim. 

How much will it cost to pursue my civil claim?

Costs vary depending on the complexity of your case and how it progresses. For personal injury claims, we offer Conditional Fee Agreements (“No Win No Fee”), meaning you only pay legal fees if your claim is successful. For other civil matters, we provide clear cost estimates at the outset and regular updates throughout your case. We’re committed to transparency about costs and will discuss all available funding options during your initial consultation. 

How long will my civil case take to resolve?

The duration varies significantly depending on the complexity of your case, whether liability is disputed, and if court proceedings become necessary. Simple matters might resolve in a few months, while complex cases can take a year or longer.  

We always aim to resolve matters as efficiently as possible and will provide realistic timeframes based on your specific circumstances. 

Will my civil dispute have to go to Court?

Not necessarily. Most civil cases are settled before reaching a full court hearing. Our experienced team explores all avenues for resolution, including negotiation, mediation, and other forms of alternative dispute resolution. However, we are fully prepared to take your case to court when necessary to protect your interests. 

What is mediation and how can it help my case?

Mediation is a form of alternative dispute resolution where an independent third party (the mediator) helps parties find a mutually acceptable solution. It’s often faster and less expensive than court proceedings, allows for more creative solutions, and can help preserve relationships. Our qualified mediators can guide you through this process or represent you in mediation sessions. 

What information do I need to provide for my initial consultation?

To make the most of our initial consultation, please bring: 

  • Any relevant documents (contracts, correspondence, photographs, reports) 
  • A timeline of key events 
  • Details of any witnesses 
  • Information about losses you’ve suffered 
  • Any evidence you’ve gathered 

This helps us assess your case accurately and provide tailored advice from the outset. 

How do Conditional Fee Agreements (No Win No Fee) work?

Under a Conditional Fee Agreement (CFA): 

  • You pay no upfront legal fees 
  • If your claim is unsuccessful, you don’t pay our basic legal fees (though you may still be responsible for disbursements and the other side’s costs in some circumstances) 
  • If your claim is successful, our fees are paid by the other party and/or from your compensation, with details clearly explained before you proceed 
  • We may arrange After the Event insurance to protect you against potential costs 

Can I change solicitors if I'm unhappy with my current representation?

Yes, you have the right to change solicitors at any stage of your case. If you’re considering transferring your case to Fisher Jones Greenwood, we can make the process smooth and straightforward, often working on the same fee arrangement as your previous solicitor.  

We’ll review your case objectively and provide honest advice about its merits. 

What compensation might I receive for my civil claim?

Compensation varies widely depending on your specific circumstances.  

For personal injury claims, it typically includes damages for pain and suffering as well as financial losses such as lost earnings and treatment costs.  

For other civil matters, compensation may include financial losses, costs of rectification, or other remedies. We provide realistic assessments of potential compensation based on similar cases and legal precedents. 

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