Facing a civil dispute that needs resolving?
When a relationship breaks down, a dispute arises from an individual losing capacity or dying or a contract dispute escalates, you need a civil litigation lawyer who combines sharp legal thinking with commercial awareness. At Nelsons, we resolve civil disputes efficiently, protecting your interests while keeping legal costs proportionate to the outcome you’re seeking.
We understand that civil litigation is rarely the preferred route for most people. It’s disruptive, time-consuming, and often stressful. That’s why our approach balances robust representation with pragmatic advice on when to negotiate, mediate, or pursue matters through court.
Contact us today for expert legal advice on your civil dispute. Call 0800 024 1976 or complete our enquiry form.
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Services we provide
Our civil litigation lawyers handle a wide range of civil disputes:
Breach of contract and contractual disputes
We resolve disagreements over contract terms, performance issues and alleged breaches, whether you’re enforcing your rights or defending a claim.
Professional negligence claims
We bring or defend claims against accountants, surveyors, solicitors, and financial advisers where negligent advice has caused financial loss.
Land, boundary and property disputes
We handle boundary disagreements, rights of way, easements, restrictive covenants and property-related civil disputes requiring court intervention.
Landlord, tenant and housing disputes
We resolve tenancy disputes, dilapidations claims, forfeiture proceedings, and tenant default matters.
Wills, trusts or probate disputes
We handle contested Wills, inheritance claims, executor disputes and trust administration disagreements.
Data breach claims
We pursue compensation where organisations have failed to protect your personal data, causing financial loss and/or distress.
Libel and slander (defamation)
We protect your reputation by bringing or defending claims involving false statements that damage character or business standing.
Court of Protection proceedings
We handle disputes about mental capacity decisions, which care home an incapacitated person is housed in, deputyship applications and challenges to lasting powers of attorney.
Public law and judicial reviews
We challenge unlawful decisions by public bodies, ensuring government and authorities act within their legal powers.
Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR)
We guide you through mediation, arbitration, and expert determination as cost-effective alternatives to litigation.
Our process
1. Initial assessment – We evaluate the strength of your case, examine the evidence and identify the most effective strategy. You’ll receive clear advice on prospects of success, likely costs and alternative approaches to court proceedings.
2. Pre-action protocol – Before issuing court proceedings, we follow formal pre-action protocols designed to encourage early settlement. We exchange detailed letters outlining each party’s position and exploring negotiation opportunities.
3. Court proceedings – If a settlement isn’t reached, we issue or defend court claims. We manage all procedural requirements, from drafting statements of case to disclosure of documents and witness evidence preparation.
4. Trial or settlement – Most civil disputes settle before trial. Where they don’t, we provide robust representation in court. Throughout, we keep you informed of settlement opportunities and advise on proportionate next steps.
Time frames vary significantly based on case complexity and court availability. Fast-track cases may conclude within six months, while multi-track litigation can extend beyond a year.
Why choose Nelsons as your civil litigation lawyers

- Recognised expertise – Our team, recommended by the independently-researched publication, The Legal 500, are specialists in civil litigation, with a deep understanding of the Civil Procedure Rules and a track record of successful outcomes.
- Experience across all civil disputes – Our civil litigation solicitors have many years of experience resolving disputes for individuals, consumers, property owners and service providers across the East Midlands and beyond.
- Clear communication – Legal jargon creates confusion. We explain complex issues in plain English, ensuring you understand your options and can make informed decisions.
- Strategic thinking – Not every dispute needs a courtroom. We excel at identifying pressure points that encourage settlement and knowing when to push forward with litigation.
- Partner-led service – You’ll work directly with experienced partners who take personal responsibility for your case, supported by a skilled team ensuring nothing falls through the cracks.
Ready to Resolve Your Civil Dispute? Don’t let a civil dispute escalate without expert legal advice. Our civil litigation lawyers provide the strategic guidance you need to protect your position. Call 0800 024 1976 or contact our team to discuss your case. We have offices in Derby, Leicester, and Nottingham.
Testimonials…
Meet the team
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Kevin ModiriPartner & Solicitor
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Ruby Raine-EllerkerSenior Associate & Solicitor
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Stuart ParrisSenior Associate & Solicitor
Make an enquiry
If you wish to contact us, please complete the form below. A member of our team will be in touch as soon as possible.
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Civil Litigation Solicitors FAQS
Below, we have answered some frequently asked questions concerning civil litigation solicitors
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How much does civil litigation cost?
Costs vary depending on case complexity and whether matters settle early or proceed to trial. We provide transparent fee estimates at the outset and update you regularly as matters progress. Many cases are suitable for fixed fees or capped costs arrangements.
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How long will my civil dispute take to resolve?
Simple debt recovery matters may resolve within weeks. Complex commercial disputes can take 12-18 months if they proceed to trial. Most cases settle before reaching court, often during the pre-action protocol stage or after initial court steps.
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Should I try mediation instead of court proceedings?
Mediation is often faster and more cost-effective than litigation (if the case settles). We advise on whether your dispute is suitable for mediation and can represent you throughout the process. Courts now expect parties to consider ADR before trial. Read more about our Mediation services.
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What happens if I lose my case?
In civil litigation, the losing party typically pays the winning party’s legal costs, though courts don’t always award 100% recovery. We assess risks at every stage and advise on settlement opportunities that eliminate this exposure.
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Can you help if someone owes my business money?
Yes. Our debt recovery service combines negotiation with court proceedings when necessary. We pursue outstanding commercial invoices efficiently, balancing successful recovery against legal costs incurred. Learn more about Debt Recovery.
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Do you handle property and boundary disputes?
Yes. We resolve civil disputes involving land boundaries, rights of way, easements, restrictive covenants and other property-related matters requiring court intervention.
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Can you help with landlord and tenant disputes?
Yes. We handle tenancy disputes, forfeiture proceedings, rent arrears and other landlord-tenant matters requiring legal action.
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What is a Letter Before Action?
A Letter Before Action is a formal pre-court letter outlining your claim and giving the other party a final opportunity to settle. It’s a mandatory step before issuing proceedings in most civil disputes and often prompts settlement without court involvement.
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Do you handle claims against professionals?
Yes. Our professional negligence team handles claims where accountants, surveyors, solicitors or financial advisers’ errors have caused you financial loss. This might include missed deadlines, poor advice or inadequate service delivery.
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What types of disputes do you not handle?
We handle a comprehensive range of civil litigation matters. If you’re unsure whether your dispute falls within our service areas, contact us and we’ll advise on the best route forward.
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What evidence do I need for a civil litigation case?
Strong evidence includes written contracts, correspondence, invoices, witness statements and expert reports where relevant. We advise on evidence gathering during our initial assessment and throughout proceedings.
Get in touch
Speak to us now on 0800 024 1976Email Us