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As a public sector organisation, it’s likely at some point you’ll be involved in a dispute; whether that’s bringing a claim or defending one.

Disputes of any kind give rise to a risk of liability, exposure to damages and costs, plus they  take up valuable time and resources. You therefore need an expert team by your side to help mitigate these risks and guide you to a successful resolution.

Top-ranked in the legal directories and two time winner of the Legal 500 dispute resolution firm of the year (outside London) award, our disputes team is one of the largest and strongest in the North of England.

We are known for the breadth of our expertise, our commitment to our clients, astute and pragmatic advice, and our ability to think outside the box.

Whether you face a contractual or procurement dispute, a Judicial Review application, or whatever form of issue gives rise to your dispute, you can rest assured that we have the  experience and sector knowledge that you need.

Going to court is hopefully the last resort and our team has a wealth of experience of  mediation and other more cost-effective and timely ways of resolving disputes However, if your case does reach court, you can be assured of our proven trial experience and successful track record.

We are here and ready to help.

Our services
  • Contractual disputes
  • Court of Protection applications
  • Fraud
  • Inquests and coronial investigations
  • Intellectual Property matters
  • IT disputes
  • Judicial Review applications
  • Misfeasance
  • Professional negligence
  • Public procurement disputes and challenges
  • PFI Disputes

Contact a specialist

Peter Hornsey

Partner | Commercial Litigation

+44 (0) 330 137 3314

+44 (0)792 149 8908

Email Peter Hornsey

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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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Ian McCombie

Partner | Commercial Litigation

+44 (0) 330 137 3316

+44 (0)7720 295 270

Email Ian McCombie

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What people say

  • Nick Wells provides an outstanding service, combining technical excellence with commercial common sense making you feel that your dispute is in a safe pair of hands.

    Legal 500 2025
  • Ian McCombie- excellent under fire, authoritative and sympathetic to client needs.

    Legal 500 2025
  • Ian McCombie is an outstanding commercial litigator who is sensitive to client needs and works in a collaborative and effective manner with the legal team.

    Legal 500 2025
  • Gaynor Jackson's knowledge in all areas of contentious probate, estate administration and taxation is outstanding and we are confident that we receive the best and most appropriate advice from her and from the team who work with her.

    Legal 500 2025
  • Gaynor is very skilled in the area. A safe pair of hands with a wealth of experience. She is extremely efficient and uses strong interpersonal skills to build long standing relationships with her clients.

    Legal 500 2025
  • Gaynor Jackson is one of the most experienced advisers I use. I trust her views wholly. Gaynor is always happy to give initial and sound advice, enabling my clients to make informed decisions. Gaynor is both knowledgeable and personable.

    Legal 500 2025
  • Robert Eldon is approachable, commercial, reasoned and astute. He quickly sought to understand our goals and met our needs, which in this case was to avoid court. I would not hesitate to recommend Rob to anyone needing commercial litigation expertise.

    Legal 500 2025
  • "Sam Walker is exceptionally well-organised with an excellent command of detail. Very hard working and dedicated to clients' cause and needs whilst remaining commercially astute."

    Legal 500, client quote
  • The Ward Hadaway LLP team comprises specialist partners in a broad range of sector disciplines. Partners are supported by efficient, professional support teams. Client communication at all levels and via all media forms is exceptional. Impressive IT support, especially client collaborative hubs

    Legal 500

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