Civil Litigation Solicitors

+ Boundary Disputes

Disputes involving property boundaries can quickly become heated, especially when neighbours hold strong views or there’s a history of disagreement. These matters often centre around unclear title plans, disputed fencing or allegations of trespass. Our boundary dispute solicitors provide clear advice on property boundaries, title deeds and the law relating to adverse possession. We work to resolve the situation through negotiation where possible, but can also act decisively if court proceedings become necessary. Our priority is to bring clarity to your position and achieve a resolution that restores peace of mind.

+ Commercial and Contractual Disputes

Contractual disputes in a personal context often arise from private agreements that have broken down. This might include disagreements over unpaid loans, failed purchases or disputes about terms that were never properly recorded. Our commercial dispute solicitors provide clear advice on where you stand and what action can be taken. We can help open communication with the other party and will work to resolve matters efficiently, avoiding formal proceedings wherever appropriate. If court action becomes necessary, we will prepare your case with care and ensure you are supported at every step.

+ Debt Recovery

When someone refuses to repay money owed, it can place you under real pressure. Personal debt recovery often involves private loans, unpaid invoices, or disputes between friends or family where no formal agreement exists. Our debt recovery lawyers will assess the circumstances and provide practical advice on your legal rights and the strength of your position. We can issue formal demands, negotiate repayment terms, and if necessary, pursue the matter through court. We focus on achieving a fair outcome without unnecessary delay, always mindful of the financial and emotional cost of litigation.

+ Inheritance Disputes and Contentious Probate

Disagreements following a death can be especially difficult. These disputes often involve concerns about the validity of a will, the way an estate is being managed, or questions about who should benefit. Emotions can run high, particularly when family relationships are strained. Our inheritance dispute solicitors are experienced in resolving sensitive matters with care and professionalism. We will guide you through your legal rights, explain your options clearly, and act to protect your position. Where possible, we aim to resolve matters through early engagement, but we are prepared to represent you in contentious probate proceedings if needed.

+ Professional Negligence

If you’ve relied on the advice or services of a professional and suffered financial loss as a result, you may have grounds to bring a claim. These cases can involve surveyors, architects, accountants, or other advisers who failed to meet the required standard of care. Our Civil Litigation Solicitors in Burnley will review the facts and assess whether a claim is likely to succeed. We provide clear, honest advice and will take prompt action to help you recover what you’ve lost. We aim to resolve matters constructively but will take firm steps where necessary to hold the responsible party to account.

+ Property disputes

Legal disputes involving property can be convoluted and disruptive. You may be dealing with issues around rights of way, shared ownership, damage to property or disagreements over obligations under a lease. Our commercial property dispute solicitors will explain your rights, clarify the legal position and work with you to resolve the issue efficiently. We understand how much is at stake when property is involved, and we tailor our approach to suit your specific goals, whether that involves negotiation or formal legal action.

+ Tenant Evictions

When a tenancy breaks down, it’s essential to follow the correct legal process to regain possession of your property. Delays, errors or missed steps can lead to further complications and financial loss. Our tenant eviction solicitors will guide you through each stage, from serving notice to applying for possession and enforcing an order if required. We act for private landlords and letting agents who need fast, reliable advice on how to resolve issues lawfully and without unnecessary confrontation.

+ What is Civil Litigation?

Civil litigation is the legal process used to resolve disputes between people, organisations or other parties where one side is seeking compensation, enforcement of rights or another form of remedy. These are non-criminal matters, but they can still have serious personal, financial or legal consequences.

Common examples include disagreements over property, debts, inheritance, contracts or professional mistakes. Our Civil Litigation Solicitors are experienced in advising on all aspects of civil litigation and will work with you to resolve the issue efficiently and with a focus on protecting your interests.

+ What is Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR)?

Alternative dispute resolution (ADR) refers to a range of methods used to resolve legal disputes without going through a full court process. This includes approaches such as negotiation, mediation, arbitration and expert determination. ADR is often quicker, less formal and more cost-effective than litigation, particularly for disputes where both parties are open to finding a practical solution.

Mediation is one of the most common forms of ADR. It involves an independent third party helping both sides reach an agreement. While the outcome isn’t legally binding unless both parties agree to it, mediation can be especially useful in disputes involving property, inheritance or longstanding personal relationships.

At Farnworth Rose, our Alternative Dispute Resolution Solicitors will assess whether ADR is appropriate for your case and guide you through the process. We’ll explain the advantages, risks and likely costs so you can make an informed decision. If ADR can help you avoid the delays and costs of court, we’ll help you resolve the matter efficiently and on terms that work for you.

While ADR isn’t suitable for every situation, we’ll always explore it where there’s a realistic chance of achieving a fair and constructive outcome.

+ What is the Difference Between a Civil Dispute and a Corporate Dispute?

A civil dispute typically involves individuals or private parties and can relate to matters such as property boundaries, inheritance, debts, or personal agreements. These cases are usually handled through the county court and are focused on resolving personal legal issues rather than business conflicts.

A corporate dispute, by contrast, involves companies or business entities and often relates to shareholder disagreements, breaches of directors’ duties, contract disputes between commercial parties or internal governance issues. These cases may proceed in the High Court, particularly within the Business and Property Courts, depending on their complexity and value.

At Farnworth Rose, we specialise in civil litigation for individuals, including landlords, professionals and private clients. If your case involves a business or company, our commercial dispute resolution team may be able to assist, but our primary focus is on supporting individuals in resolving personal legal disputes with clarity, care and strategic insight.

+ Can Civil Disputes be Resolved Without Going to Court?

Yes, while court proceedings are sometimes necessary, many disputes can be resolved without even stepping into a courtroom. Early negotiation between solicitors or structured mediation often provides a quicker and more cost effective outcome.

Our Dispute Resolution Solicitors in Burnley will assess your situation and advise on the most appropriate route forward. If formal proceedings are needed, we'll guide you through the process from start to finish, making sure your case is presented clearly and your position is fully protected.

+ How Long Does Civil Litigation Take?

There’s no fixed timescale for civil litigation. Some disputes can be resolved within a matter of weeks, especially if an early agreement is reached through negotiation or mediation. More complex matters involving court proceedings or multiple parties can take several months or longer.

As experienced Litigation Solicitors in Burnley, we’ll assess the likely timeline based on your specific circumstances and keep you informed as your case progresses. We’ll also take proactive steps to avoid unnecessary delays and help you plan ahead with realistic expectations.

+ Can I Recover Legal Costs if I Win my Case?

In some civil litigation cases, the losing party may be ordered to pay a portion of your legal costs. However, this depends on the type of claim and which court track it falls under. For example, in small claims (typically disputes under £10,000), cost recovery is very limited and each party usually pays their own legal fees.

For higher-value or more serious claims, particularly those on the fast or multi-track, the court has discretion to award costs to the successful party. This often includes only reasonable and proportionate costs, not necessarily the full amount.

Our Civil Litigation Solicitors will always advise you on the likelihood of recovering costs in your particular case. We’ll help you balance the financial risks and make decisions that reflect both your legal position and the wider impact of the dispute.

+ Is There a Time Limit for Bringing a Civil Claim?

Yes. Most civil claims must be brought within a fixed time frame known as the limitation period. For example, claims for breach of contract or property damage generally have a six-year limit, while professional negligence and some inheritance disputes may have different rules.

It’s important to act quickly. If you wait too long, you may lose the right to bring a claim altogether. Our Litigation Solicitors can assess your case and advise you on any deadlines that apply.