Civil Litigation Solicitors

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. 

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. 

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. 

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. 

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. 

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. 

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. 

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 

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. 

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.