Litigation

Despite the widespread use of adjudication, court action will always be required in some cases, from debt recovery and insolvency, to adjudication enforcement, to full-blown substantive proceedings in the Technology and Construction Court (TCC).

litigation

As construction solicitors, unlike some involved in construction disputes, we are authorised to carry out litigation – which means we truly offer a full disputes service. We have experience of bringing and defending claims for everything from a few thousand pounds to £150m+, as well as increasing expertise in fire safety and cladding related claims and complex multi-party action.

Issuing court proceedings is an expensive and time-consuming pursuit. It is rare that we advise it without exhausting every other avenue available. But it is usually an integral part of a disputes strategy – at least as a step of last resort – and when deployed at the right time and in the right way, litigation can swiftly move disputes forward. And of course, it can be your only option.

That is no truer than when defending a court claim. As well as bringing claims, we’re used to acting for defendants – both those that have seen the claim coming, and those that have to react quickly to an unexpected claim form. Although the dynamic is different, we know the paths to pursue (and just as importantly those not to), and we frequently work with counsel and experts to firmly defend claims and turn the tables on the claimant. Whether it’s a well-timed offer, a strategic concession, or a disclosure onslaught, never let it be said the defendant lacks options.

Construction litigation, like any court claim, is costly. We are transparent on our fees, and work to scope out work in advance, wherever possible providing stage-by-stage estimates and even fixed fees where possible. We can also consider damages-based agreements and insurance cover where possible. And ultimately, we will always look to mitigate your costs by winning the case, and making sure your opponent ends up footing the bill.

adjudication

Adjudication

Adjudications are our bread and butter. For better or worse, it’s the industry’s go-to dispute resolution forum. While adjudication has its flaws – believe us, we know – it can be a quick and cost-efficient route…
litigation

Litigation

Despite the widespread use of adjudication, we remain construction litigators at heart. Court action will always be required in some cases, from simple debt recovery, to adjudication enforcement…
Arbitration

Arbitration

Arbitration is increasingly common in construction contracts. It is an alternative to court-based litigation, offering the same final determination but with the apparent advantages of privacy…
ADR

ADR (Alternative Dispute Resolution)

Despite its terrible name, Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) works. From bog-standard mediation to bespoke solutions, there are many ways to solve disputes without resorting to issuing a court claim…
development

Development

If you’re carrying out any construction works you need well-drafted and pragmatic contracts in place. Not only do these contracts protect your own interests but they future proof…
real estate finance

Real Estate Finance

No matter what the value of development finance, it is essential that as lender you are protected. This means getting the same contractual protection as the borrower and additional security…
contract support

Contract Support

We know that many contractors and sub-contractors don’t have the luxury of in-house legal resource to deal with all contractual queries and documentation. We can fill the gap and offer specialist input…
solicitor support

Solicitor support

We’re specialist construction solicitors – and that’s all we do. We know there are others out there who are specialists in their fields and don’t touch construction law. We can fill that void…
real estate finance

Public Sector

We don’t just act for private sector organisations – a lot of our client base is either a public body or a wholly owned subsidiary of one. As such we know what issues impact the public sector and are able to advise…

I have been working with Ruth and the Team for a number of years on various complex issues. They always go the extra mile to understand the commercial reality of situations providing detailed and well thought out guidance and legal advice every time. They are an invaluable support service when required and it is clear that they genuinely care about providing the best service possible to our business.

Daniel Maguire

Commercial Director – Rail & Infrastructure Division | VolkerFitzpatrick

Rory and the team at Archor provide HUB with an excellent service across our whole living portfolio. They are very responsive, knowledgeable, trusted and have built lasting relationships with the whole HUB team.

Damien Sharkey

Managing Director |. Hub Residential

I use Archor because it’s a one stop shop, I get made to feel important and like I’m a priority. They work quickly and allow me to get on with other things, and I trust their judgement and advice implicitly.

I don’t think I’ve ever had to chase you them on a legal matter, it’s normally the other way around which is another reason why I wouldn’t take our business elsewhere – I very much feel like we are a team working towards the same outcome.

Luke Harris

Construction Director | Frontier Estates

Oli and his team always seem to be able to grasp the situation you find yourself in. Even though we have a huge head start with regards the contract and issues we are facing, they are able to get up to speed quickly and then formulate a strategy that leads to a successful conclusion.

John Henry

Director | John Henry Group

It’s always a pleasure working with the team at Archor. They are proactive, diligent and happy to offer genuine, practical advice.

Alex Hall

Director | Common Projects

I find Rory to be very approachable, with a can-do attitude. Which combined with his attention to detail, understanding of the potential risks and practical approach makes him a very valued and respected member of our consultant team.

Spencer Burrell

Director | Big Sky Living

Adam was an excellent all around. Disputes can often be stressful so it is incredibly helpful to have someone who can cut through the fog to deliver clear and concise advice that was still meticulous. He was always quick to respond when needed and was great at balancing the legal position against the reality of a commercial
environment

Aslan Ryskali

Director | MBIL Developments

‘We work with Archor for our legal matters as we find their professional, down to earth, flexible, relationship lead approach adds additional value beyond the standard legal advice you would achieve with others. We have great long-term relationships at various levels and the results we have achieved with Archor’s help have been fantastic’

Mark Burrows

Regional Commercial Director | Breheny Civil Engineering

Dealing with the potential loss of our home and possibly much worse we found ourselves in a difficult and vulnerable position. Seeking justice as lay people is a minefield full of risk and uncertainty.

Fortunately we were supported by caring professionals at Archor, in particular Jessica Garrod, Associate. It was quite a journey, but Jessica and Andrew Rush (Senior Partner) steered us through the choppy waters.

We can never thank them enough and we thoroughly recommend them as solicitors, their knowledge and skill in relation to dealing with properties and institutions such as insurance companies is second to none.

Jane and Andrew Hibberd

Private Clients, Norfolk