Running a small business is built on relationships. Whether you’re working with a long-standing supplier, a trusted contractor, a business partner or a regular customer, good working relationships can make all the difference.
But sometimes, things go wrong. A business dispute can arise for all sorts of reasons, from an unpaid invoice or disagreement over a contract to problems with the quality of work provided.
For smaller businesses in and around the South West, these situations can feel particularly daunting. You may know the person or business you are dealing with personally, and the last thing you want is for a disagreement to escalate into a costly and stressful legal battle.
So, what should you do when a business relationship breaks down?
Start by understanding exactly what has gone wrong
Before deciding what to do next, take a step back and establish what the disagreement is actually about.
Is a customer refusing to pay for work you have completed? Has a supplier failed to deliver what was agreed? Has a contractor carried out work that doesn’t meet the expected standard? Or has a business partner failed to stick to an agreement?
These are all common causes of business disputes, and understanding exactly what has happened is the first step towards resolving one.
Look back at your contract, terms of business, invoices and correspondence. Emails and messages can also be useful in establishing what was agreed and what happened afterwards.
It is much easier to work out your options when you have a clear picture of the situation and the evidence to support your position.
Know when it’s time to get advice
Sometimes, despite your best efforts, an agreement simply cannot be reached.
If the other party is refusing to engage, you are facing a significant financial loss, or you have received a legal letter or claim yourself, getting advice early can help you understand where you stand and what your options are.
At Howard & Over, our civil litigation team deals with a wide range of disputes, including contract disagreements, professional negligence, debt recovery and other financial disputes.
We can advise whether you have a case worth pursuing, help you respond if someone is bringing a claim against you, and explain the potential costs and risks before you decide how to proceed.
Court isn’t the only answer
One of the biggest misconceptions about business disputes is that getting a solicitor involved automatically means ending up in court.
In reality, many disputes can be resolved through negotiation or alternative dispute resolution before formal court proceedings are needed. If court action does become necessary, Howard & Over can guide you through the process and represent you along the way.
Our approach is practical and straightforward: understand the problem, look at the options and work towards the best possible outcome for you and your business.
Don’t let a dispute distract you from running your business
For a small business owner, a business dispute can take up far more than money. It can consume your time, affect your relationships and become a constant distraction from running your business.
If a business relationship has broken down and you’re unsure what to do next, the sooner you understand your position, the better.