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Dispute often arise in PFI arrangements. Dispute resolution typically begins with negotiation, and can be escalated to an expert determination, adjudication or arbitration process and in some challenging instances, PFI disputes can become the subject of formal litigation proceedings.

While we seek to maintain, and strengthen, the relationship between our clients and Project Co, and facilitate productive negotiations and the swift resolution of issues, we understand that it may be necessary to escalate disputes to a formal  process to resolve matters.

We have extensive experience in resolving disputes, adopting a strategic and clear approach to provide clarity and reassurance. We effectively select and coordinate expert witnesses and counsel, as well as organise and consolidate key evidence and documentation.

Our award-winning team has successfully acted on a range of disputes including:

Contractual dispute resolution procedures

Advising on contractual dispute resolution procedures, setting out the options available, applicable timescales and recommended course of action based on the nature of the dispute;

Liaison committee meetings

Assisting clients to prepare for liaison committee meetings and crystallising disputes;

Mediations

Representing clients at mediations to resolve disputes without the need to escalate to adjudication, arbitration or formal court proceedings.

Adjudications

Acting for clients in adjudications on a range of disputes including:

  • The failure, by Project Co, to appoint technical personnel in accordance with statutory requirements;
  • The failure to accurately classify tasks on the Helpdesk, and to rectify and report the presence of defects; and
  • The double-charging of consumables and catering items

all of which resulted in the award of substantial deductions and the accrual of rights to terminate the Project Agreement for Project Co Default;

  • We are also currently acting for an NHS Trust in an adjudication to determine the amount of compensation payable, by the Trust to Project Co or vice versa, following the early termination of the Project Agreement. We have assisted the Trust in the appointment of an adjudicator and have drafted the key documentation needed to progress the dispute. We have also appointed experts on behalf of the Trust to assess the true condition of the facility and inform the amount of compensation payable.
Standstill agreements

Negotiating standstill agreements to preserve clients’ rights to terminate whilst allowing further opportunities for parties to explore dispute resolution options.

Settlement agreements

Negotiating settlement agreements to resolve disputes.

Contact a specialist

Melanie Pears

Partner | Head of Public Sector

+44 (0) 330 137 3451

+44 (0)789 987 8424

Email Melanie Pears

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Kerry Adcock

Partner | Public Sector

+44 (0) 330 137 3453

+44 (0)779 337 0778

Email Kerry Adcock

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Patrick Saunders

Associate | Commercial

+44 (0)330 137 3464

+44 (0) 770 717 1824

Email Patrick Saunders

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David Taylor

Managing Associate | Public Sector

+44 (0) 330 137 3462

+44 (0) 773 052 1895

Email David Taylor

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Lucy Cleghorn

Director | Commercial Litigation

+44 (0) 330 137 3302

+44 (0)773 846 1990

Email Lucy Cleghorn

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Martin Woodford

Partner | Commercial Litigation

+44 (0) 330 137 3319

+44 (0)791 232 8152

Email Martin Woodford

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Robert Glassford

Partner | Commercial Litigation

+44 (0) 330 137 3313

+44 (0)752 522 4545

Email Robert Glassford

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Meet the whole team