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FAQs

Quick answers about claims, fees, timelines, evidence and next steps.

general

What is WeSueAnyone.com and what do you do?

WeSueAnyone.com is a UK legal service (yes, real solicitors!) that helps individuals and businesses pursue a wide range of claims. Despite the tongue-in-cheek name, we’re serious about getting results. From personal injury and unfair dismissal to intellectual property spats, if someone’s done you wrong, our team is here to help make it right. Think

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Do you really “sue anyone”?

We get this a lot, and our name is a bit of a wink. No, we won’t sue your granny for serving cold tea, but if you have a genuine legal claim, chances are we can help. WeSueAnyone.com covers almost any legitimate dispute: careless drivers, dodgy landlords, negligent professionals, you name it. We draw the line at frivolous or petty cases (we’re here for justice, not revenge). In short, we help reasonable people sue unreasonable behaviour. The name shows our confidence and breadth, and yes, we really will go after whoever’s responsible, as long as the case has merit.

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How does the claims process work with WeSueAnyone.com?

It’s straightforward and client-friendly. Typically, it starts with a free initial consultation where we listen to your story (in plain English, not legalese). If we think you have a case, we gather evidence and notify the other side with a formal claim letter. We’ll negotiate and try to settle the matter out of court if possible (most disputes resolve this way). Throughout the process, we keep you updated and in control. If the other side won’t play ball, we prepare to issue a claim in court and let a judge decide. Don’t worry, we guide you through every step, handle the paperwork, and fight your corner. You basically tell us what happened, and we take it from there, all while keeping you informed and involved (and hopefully a bit less stressed).

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What does “No Win, No Fee” mean?

“No Win, No Fee” means exactly what it says on the tin, if we don’t win your case, you don’t pay our fees. This is also called a Conditional Fee Agreement in the UK. Under a no win, no fee arrangement, your solicitor only gets paid if you win compensation . If the claim is unsuccessful, you owe us nothing for our work… zero, zip, nada . This takes the financial risk out of pursuing a claim. It’s our way of saying we’re confident in your case and willing to shoulder the risk alongside you. (In successful cases, the opponent often covers most legal costs, and a pre-agreed success fee may be deducted, but we’ll explain all that upfront, so no surprises). Bottom line: if we don’t win, you don’t pay, that’s our promise .

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Will I have to pay anything if I lose my case?

No, that’s the beauty of our no win, no fee model. If your case is unsuccessful, you won’t owe us a penny in solicitor fees . We may advise you to take out a modest insurance policy at the start (called “after the event” insurance) to cover things like court fees or the other side’s costs if, in the unlikely event, you lose . But you won’t be paying our legal fees if the case doesn’t succeed. We take on that risk. This means you can pursue justice without worrying about a big legal bill in the end. We’re successful in the majority of cases we take on, but if something doesn’t go your way, we’ve made sure you’re protected financially.

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Will I have to go to court?

Probably not. The honest truth is most cases settle before reaching a courtroom. In fact, well over 90% of legal claims are resolved through negotiations or mediation without a trial. For example, only around 5% of personal injury claims ever go to court, roughly 95% are settled or dropped before then . WeSueAnyone.com’s goal is to get you a fair outcome as efficiently as possible, so if we can settle your case early on good terms, we will. That said, we prepare every case thoroughly as if it will go to court and if a trial is necessary, we’ll be right there by your side, fighting for you. In short: we aim to settle, but we’re always ready to battle in court if needed.

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How long will my case take?

It varies depending on the type and complexity of the case (sorry, we lawyers love saying “it depends”). A straightforward claim can resolve surprisingly quickly, sometimes in a matter of a few months if liability (fault) is clear and the other side cooperates. For instance, many straightforward personal injury cases resolve within 12 to 18 months . More complex disputes or cases where the other side digs their heels in can take longer, possibly 18+ months or even a couple of years for very complex matters. We know you want closure ASAP, so we do everything we can to move things along efficiently. We’ll also keep you updated at each stage so you’re not left in the dark. Patience helps, but rest assured, we’re pushing behind the scenes to get you results as soon as reasonably possible.

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Do I really need a lawyer? Can’t I handle this myself?

You have the right to handle many legal matters on your own, in theory. But remember the old saying: “A man who is his own lawyer has a fool for a client.” Navigating legal processes, court rules, and negotiation tactics can be tricky for a non-lawyer. If it’s a very minor dispute (like a small claim under a few hundred pounds), you might manage DIY using the small claims court. However, for anything significant, having a solicitor vastly improves your chances. We bring legal know-how, experience dealing with insurers and opposing lawyers, and we know the tricks of the trade. At WeSueAnyone.com, we also speak plain English and explain your options clearly. So while you can go it alone, why not give yourself the advantage of a dedicated legal team? It’s usually no-win-no-fee, so you don’t pay unless we win. In short: by all means, you could DIY, but if you want the best shot at success (and less stress), we’re here for you.

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Is my case big enough or important enough for you to take on?

Don’t worry… We’re not just here for giant cases. We handle big and small claims as long as they have legal merit. Whether you’re hurt in a fender-bender or owed a few thousand pounds by a rogue tradesperson, we treat your case with the importance it deserves. If something bad happened and it wasn’t your fault, it’s important to you, and therefore it’s important to us. We won’t turn you away just because a claim isn’t worth millions. In fact, our no win, no fee model is designed to help the “little guy” get justice without upfront costs. On the flip side, if your matter is very large or complex, we have the expertise to handle that too. We love a good challenge. So, when in doubt, just ask! We offer free initial advice. If we truly feel your case isn’t viable (for example, no legal wrongdoing occurred), we’ll tell you honestly. But please don’t assume your case is “too small”, let us be the judge of that, and we’ll happily help if we can.

personal

Can I make a personal injury claim?

If you’ve been injured and it was somebody else’s fault, then yes, you likely can make a personal injury claim. Personal injury covers all kinds of accidents: road traffic accidents (car crashes, bike accidents), accidents at work, slips or trips in public places, medical negligence, and more. The key is that another person or entity failed in their duty of care (i.e. they were negligent) and caused your injury. You don’t have to have broken bones, even psychological injuries or illnesses caused by others (like work-related stress or industrial diseases) can count. If you’re unsure, talk to us at WeSueAnyone.com. We’ll assess whether someone else is legally responsible for your injury. If so, you could claim compensation for your pain, suffering, and any financial losses. Bottom line: hurt because of someone else’s mistake? Then you probably have a case.

personal

Is there a time limit for personal injury claims?

Yes… in the UK you generally have 3 years from the date of the injury to start a personal injury claim . This is called the “limitation period.” If you don’t officially begin court proceedings within three years, you could lose the right to claim forever. (There are a few exceptions: for example, if you only realized later that you were injured or that someone’s negligence caused your condition, the 3 years might run from the date you became aware of it. Also, for injuries to children, the 3-year clock only starts when they turn 18). But as a rule of thumb: don’t delay. Three years may sound like a long time, but it can fly by while you’re recovering. It’s best to contact WeSueAnyone.com or another solicitor as soon as you’re able, so we can get the ball rolling and preserve your rights. We’ll make sure all paperwork is filed in time. (If you’re reading this and think your 3 years have passed, still reach out, sometimes exceptions apply.)

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How much compensation will I get for my injury?

The compensation amount varies hugely depending on your case, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer (sorry!). In personal injury claims, compensation usually has two parts: “general damages” for your pain, suffering, and loss of amenity (fancy term for impact on your life), and “special damages” for your out-of-pocket expenses and financial losses (like lost earnings, medical costs, travel to physio, etc). The severity of your injury and how long it takes to recover are big factors, more severe, long-lasting injuries get higher awards . For example, a mild whiplash that heals in a few weeks might get a few hundred pounds, whereas a life-changing injury (say a serious spinal injury) could be worth hundreds of thousands of pounds. There are Judicial College Guidelines that lawyers and insurers use as a reference for pain & suffering awards . We’ll also look at what people received in similar past cases. Rest assured, WeSueAnyone.com will fight to get you every penny you deserve. During your case, once we have medical evidence, we can give you a better estimate. Until then, beware of anyone who promises a specific figure upfront, it should be based on evidence, not guesswork.

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How long will a personal injury claim take to settle?

It depends on the case complexity, but many personal injury claims are resolved in roughly a year or so. Simple cases (where injuries heal fully and the other side admits fault quickly) can settle in as little as 6-12 months. For instance, straightforward cases with no complications and clear liability can wrap up in 12 to 18 months . However, if you have serious injuries, we might wait to see how you recover (to ensure you get the right compensation), which can make the case longer. Disputed liability or uncooperative defendants also slow things down. Complex cases (multiple injuries, high value, or if court proceedings are needed) might take 2 years or more. We know you want your compensation yesterday, and we do our best to move things along promptly. We’ll keep you updated, and if it’s taking a while, there’s usually a good reason (like waiting for medical evidence or a specialist report). The priority is to get the right result rather than a rush job that under-settles your claim. But don’t worry, we won’t let it drag unnecessarily. We’ll nudge the other side and use the court timetable if needed to keep things progressing.

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Will I have to go to court for my injury claim?

Highly unlikely. The vast majority of personal injury claims are settled out of court. In fact, only about 5% of personal injury cases end up going to a full trial . That means 95% are resolved beforehand, either through negotiation or the case being dropped for some reason. WeSueAnyone.com strives to settle your claim without the stress of court, perhaps through negotiation with the other side’s insurance company or via mediation. If we get a fair offer, we’ll advise you to settle. If the other side is being stubborn or denying liability, we might issue court proceedings to push things along, but even then, it often settles before the final hearing. Going to court is a last resort. And if it does come to that, don’t panic. We’ll handle all the prep, we’ll brief you on exactly what to expect, and one of our expert litigators (or a barrister we hire) will present your case. Many clients actually never set foot in a courtroom. So, chances are you’ll get your compensation without ever having to face a judge. And if you do, you’ll have a strong, supportive team with you.

personal

Will I have to go to court for my injury claim?

Highly unlikely. The vast majority of personal injury claims are settled out of court. In fact, only about 5% of personal injury cases end up going to a full trial . That means 95% are resolved beforehand, either through negotiation or the case being dropped for some reason. WeSueAnyone.com strives to settle your claim without the stress of court, perhaps through negotiation with the other side’s insurance company or via mediation. If we get a fair offer, we’ll advise you to settle. If the other side is being stubborn or denying liability, we might issue court proceedings to push things along, but even then, it often settles before the final hearing. Going to court is a last resort. And if it does come to that, don’t panic. We’ll handle all the prep, we’ll brief you on exactly what to expect, and one of our expert litigators (or a barrister we hire) will present your case. Many clients actually never set foot in a courtroom. So, chances are you’ll get your compensation without ever having to face a judge. And if you do, you’ll have a strong, supportive team with you.

personal

What if the accident was partly my fault? Can I still claim?

Yes, you can still claim, being partly at fault does not bar you from compensation, though it may reduce the amount. This situation is called “contributory negligence” in legal lingo. Essentially, if both you and another party share blame, a court can apportion responsibility in percentages. For example, if you were 25% to blame for an accident and the other side 75%, you could still receive compensation, but it would likely be reduced by 25% to reflect your share. Contributory negligence doesn’t stop you from claiming; it just affects how much you get . Many accidents have grey areas, maybe you weren’t looking at your phone when you tripped on that broken pavement, right? Even if you think you were partly at fault, let us assess it. WeSueAnyone.com will work to minimize any allegation of your fault so you get the maximum possible compensation. And if you did have some responsibility, we’ll be upfront about how that might impact the outcome. But don’t write off your claim just because you feel a tad guilty, you might still have a solid case and a deserving claim.

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What does “No Win, No Fee” mean for personal injury cases?

It means zero financial risk to you in pursuing a claim. In personal injury, no win, no fee agreements (Conditional Fee Agreements) are very common. With WeSueAnyone.com, you don’t pay anything upfront. If we win your case and recover compensation, we receive a success fee (which is an agreed percentage deducted from your compensation, capped by law at 25% for injury claims in most cases). If we don’t win, you don’t pay us any legal fees at all . We may suggest an insurance policy to cover other side’s costs or expenses, but that’s only payable if we win (and usually taken from the settlement too). The idea is that you can seek justice regardless of your financial situation, the cost of losing is on us, not you. This way, you can focus on your recovery while we focus on winning your case. And because we only get paid when you do, you know we’re motivated to fight hard for you. It’s a win-win (or no fee) scenario.

civil

What is civil litigation?

Civil litigation is basically the process of one person or company taking legal action against another to resolve a non-criminal dispute. “Civil” just means it’s about civil rights and obligations (money, contracts, property, etc.), as opposed to criminal law where the state prosecutes someone for an offense. In plain terms, civil litigation is suing someone or being sued in court over a disagreement or wrongdoing. This can cover a huge range of situations: breach of contract, property disputes, debt recovery, defamation (libel/slander), nuisance complaints, and so on. If you’re arguing about money or rights, whether it’s with your neighbor, a business partner, or even a local council, that’s civil litigation. At WeSueAnyone.com, we handle civil cases large and small. Our goal is often to settle things amicably through negotiation, but if needed, we go through the court process, filing a claim, exchanging evidence, possibly going to trial, to get a decision. Civil litigation can sound scary, but with the right lawyers (hello! ), it’s a structured way to enforce your rights or defend yourself. No police, no jail, just legal arguments and remedies like compensation or injunctions.

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What types of civil cases do you handle at WeSueAnyone.com?

We handle pretty much any kind of civil dispute where someone has suffered a loss or injustice and wants to take legal action. To name a few common ones: breach of contract cases (maybe a supplier didn’t deliver goods you paid for, or a client failed to pay you), business disputes between partners or companies, property disputes (like boundary issues or a landlord/tenant fight, though we have a whole Housing section for disrepair claims), debt claims (someone owes you money), defamation (if someone’s harmful lies hurt your reputation), professional negligence (when a professional messes up, see that section below), and consumer disputes (like if you bought something faulty or a service went wrong, also see our Consumer Claims section). We also cover niche things like inheritance disputes or intellectual property issues, and even personal injury and employment cases which we broke out into their own categories because they’re special beasts. In short: if you have a civil legal issue and need to “sue someone” (or defend yourself), odds are we’ve got experience in that area. We have a versatile team with specialists across different fields of law. And if by chance it’s something ultraspecialized we don’t do, we’ll point you in the right direction.

civil

How do I start a civil lawsuit?

Generally, the first step is to try resolving the issue directly or through a pre-action letter. In most cases, we’d write a formal letter to the opponent (often called a “letter before action” or “letter of claim”) outlining your grievance, the legal basis, and what you want (e.g. payment or some remedy), and giving them a chance to respond. Sometimes disputes can be settled right there when the other side sees you’re serious and have a strong case. If that doesn’t resolve it, the next step is to file a claim form at court (now often done online for money claims) and pay a court fee. That officially starts the lawsuit. The court will then issue the claim and the other side (now “the defendant”) will have a chance to respond (they can admit, deny, or counter-sue you). Then it moves into the litigation process: both sides exchange evidence, maybe attend a case management hearing, comply with court timelines, and ultimately prepare for trial if no settlement occurs. Don’t worry… We handle all these technical steps at WeSueAnyone.com. From your perspective, starting a lawsuit means giving us the go-ahead, providing the facts and documents, and we’ll draft the legal paperwork. Also, note that some civil claims have preaction protocols (specific steps you should take before suing, especially in professional negligence, defamation, etc.) and some require attempting mediation or ADR (Alternative Dispute Resolution) first. We’ll guide you on the proper procedure so your claim gets off on the right foot.

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Is there a deadline to sue someone in a civil case?

Yes, most civil claims have time limits (known as limitation periods). The deadline depends on the type of case. A very common limit is 6 years for many contract disputes or debt claims, meaning you must start court action within 6 years of the breach or event . Similarly, 6 years is typical for tort claims (like property damage or negligence that isn’t personal injury). Some things can have shorter or longer limits. For example, defamation (libel or slander) has a 1-year limit, very short! Personal injury is 3 years (as we mentioned earlier) . If a contract is executed as a deed (a special kind of signed document), the limit is 12 years . And some civil matters have no set limit (for instance, you can technically sue to recover land after many years, though practical issues arise). The key point: don’t sit on your rights. If you wait too long, you can be time-barred, meaning even if you have a great case, the court might refuse to hear it because the deadline passed. If you’re unsure about a time limit, ask us pronto. We’ll identify which limitation applies. When in doubt, earlier is better. We’ve seen too many people miss out by delaying action until it’s too late … We’ll help you avoid that sad fate by moving swiftly.

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Who pays the legal costs in civil litigation?

In England and Wales, the general rule is “loser pays”, meaning the losing side usually has to pay the winner’s reasonable legal costs . This is also called “costs follow the event.” It’s not automatic in every case, but it’s the usual outcome in most civil court cases. For example, if you sue someone and win, the court will typically order the defendant to pay a significant portion of your solicitor’s fees, court fees, etc. (often around 70-80% of the actual costs, subject to assessment). Conversely, if you lose, you might be on the hook for the other side’s costs. However, there are important caveats. In small claims (generally disputes under £10,000), each side usually bears their own costs, no loser-pays rule there, to keep things affordable and informal. Also, the court has discretion: if someone behaved badly in the litigation (refused reasonable offers, or dragged things out), the judge can tweak cost orders. Sometimes cost liability is split if both sides win some issues. At WeSueAnyone.com, we try to mitigate cost risks, for instance, with no win, no fee for our fees, and advising on insurance for adverse costs. When we say “no win, no fee,” that covers our fees, but you should also understand the court costs rule for the other side’s fees if you lose. Don’t let this scare you though, we’ll explain cost risks and often the threat of paying costs encourages settlements. And if you win, you shouldn’t have to worry: the other side should contribute to your costs, easing the burden.

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Do I always have to go to court to settle a civil dispute?

Not at all. In fact, going to a full trial is something we treat as a last resort. There are Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) methods that can solve disputes without a judge’s ruling. Common ADR methods include mediation (where an independent mediator helps both sides reach a mutually acceptable solution) and arbitration (where a neutral arbitrator hears both sides and gives a binding decision, sort of like a private judge). There’s also plain old settlement negotiation, sometimes just an honest discussion or exchange of offers leads to a deal. Courts actively encourage settling, in some cases, you’re expected to attempt mediation or at least consider it before a trial. WeSueAnyone.com will explore these options wherever suitable. Settling out of court can save time, stress, and money. It also gives you more control over the outcome (you might agree on terms a court couldn’t order). That said, if the other side is being completely unreasonable or denying liability, you might have no choice but to let a judge decide. We’re fully prepared to litigate in court and have a strong track record there. But if there’s a decent chance to resolve things amicably (maybe through a round-table meeting or using an accredited mediator), we’ll certainly give it a go. Many of our cases end in a handshake (or at least a signed agreement) rather than a courtroom showdown. So no, you don’t always have to go to court, we’ll aim to resolve your case in the most efficient way possible.

employment

What is unfair dismissal?

Unfair dismissal is when your employer fires you without a fair reason or without following proper procedure, essentially, you’ve been given the boot unjustly. In the UK, employees with over 2 years’ service (in most cases) have the right not to be unfairly dismissed. “Fair” reasons for dismissal include things like capability (you can’t do the job or are ill long-term), conduct (serious misconduct), redundancy (the role is no longer needed), or if continuing to employ you would break the law (like you lost a required license). Even if there’s a potentially fair reason, the employer must also follow a fair process (e.g. investigate, warn you of issues, follow their disciplinary procedure, give you a chance to respond). If they don’t have a good reason and/or they handle it in a blatantly unfair way, you’ve likely been unfairly dismissed. Example: your boss fires you on the spot because of a trivial mistake, or replaces you with their cousin without warning, not cool, and probably unfair dismissal. Some reasons are automatically unfair, too, like firing someone for pregnancy, whistleblowing, or trying to assert a statutory right (those don’t require 2 years’ service). If you suspect your sacking wasn’t above board, WeSueAnyone.com’s employment law team can advise. We’ll check if the reason and process pass the smell test. If not, you can take action (usually via an Employment Tribunal) for compensation or potentially reinstatement. Bottom line: employers can’t just say “You’re fired!” on a whim, not without consequences.

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How do I know if I was unfairly dismissed or if it was legal?

It can be tricky, but start by asking: why were you dismissed, and how was it done? Your employer should have given you a clear reason (in writing, usually) and ideally followed a disciplinary or consultation process. If you were fired for reasons that feel unfair (e.g. you were actually doing fine at your job, or you were sick but had a doctor’s note, or you were made “redundant” but then they hired someone else in your role), that’s suspect. Also, if procedure was skipped, no warnings, no meeting, no chance to appeal, that’s a red flag. Certain reasons are automatically unfair, as mentioned: for instance, if you were dismissed for being pregnant, for reporting wrongdoing (whistleblowing), for joining a union or asserting your rights like minimum wage or refusing to work Sundays (in retail), those are unlawful no matter what. Sometimes the unfairness is obvious, sometimes it’s subtle. We might need to compare how others were treated (were you singled out?) or whether the punishment fit the alleged misconduct. If you got sacked for a first minor offense with no warning, likely unfair. At WeSueAnyone.com we often hear from people who “just have a gut feeling” it was unjust, trust that instinct and get legal advice. We’ll review the facts and the employer’s stated reason. If it doesn’t add up to a fair dismissal in the tribunal’s eyes, you likely have a claim for unfair dismissal. Remember, you usually need 2+ years service for a normal unfair dismissal claim (unless it’s automatic unfair). If you’re not sure, reach out… we’ll help you figure it out.

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How do I make an unfair dismissal claim?

Unfair dismissal claims are handled by the Employment Tribunal (not the civil courts). The process goes like this: First, you must contact Acas (the Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service) for “Early Conciliation.” This is essentially a required step, you fill in a form on Acas’s website (free of charge) to notify them you intend to claim, and an Acas conciliator will offer to talk to you and your ex-employer to see if a settlement can be reached. Early Conciliation usually lasts up to 6 weeks and can be quicker if a deal is or isn’t possible. If no resolution, Acas gives you a certificate number. Then you file a claim to the Employment Tribunal (ET1 form) online, using that certificate number. Important: the time limit to start a claim is very short, typically 3 months minus one day from the date your employment ended . So don’t miss that deadline even while going through Acas conciliation! Once your claim is filed, your employer (now the Respondent) will send in a response (ET3 form). The tribunal will then set directions: possibly a preliminary hearing (especially if there are jurisdiction issues or you need to discuss what the issues are), then exchange of witness statements, maybe a bundle of documents, and finally a full hearing where both sides give evidence. WeSueAnyone.com can represent you through all this, drafting your claim, negotiating via Acas, preparing your case, and advocating at the hearing. Tribunal hearings are less formal than court but still can be nerve-wracking, we’ll make sure you’re prepped and we’ll do the talking where possible. If the tribunal finds in your favour, they’ll award a remedy, usually compensation, sometimes reinstatement (though reinstatement is rare if relations have soured). The key takeaway: start the process quickly (the 3-month clock is ticking), and use a solicitor or experienced advisor if you can, because employment law can be complex.

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Is there a deadline for unfair dismissal claims?

Absolutely … and it’s one of the strictest deadlines in law. You have only 3 months minus one day from the date your employment ends to start your claim at the Employment Tribunal . For example, if your last day was 1st April, your claim deadline is 30th June (till 11:59pm that night to submit the ET1 form online). This deadline includes going through the mandatory Acas Early Conciliation, but fortunately, starting conciliation “stops the clock” for a little while. Still, you must contact Acas within that 3-month minus a day window. Don’t wait until the last minute; if you miss this deadline, the tribunal will likely refuse your case (except in exceptional circumstances). There are virtually no extensions, except if it was not “reasonably practicable” to claim in time (a high bar … e.g. you were comatose in hospital or such) or for discrimination cases which use a slightly different test (“just and equitable”). But for unfair dismissal, assume 3 months is it. If you were dismissed in, say, a redundancy or fired via letter, use the effective date of termination, often the end of your notice period or the date stated in the letter as the starting point. It can get tricky if you’re on garden leave or forced to resign (constructive dismissal) but the rule still is roughly 3 months. We can’t stress enough: get the ball rolling quickly. WeSueAnyone.com will help ensure your claim is filed in time after doing Acas conciliation. Mark that date on your calendar in bold red ink!

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What could I get if I win an unfair dismissal claim?

The Employment Tribunal can award you compensation for unfair dismissal, and in rare cases, they can order your employer to give you your job back (reinstatement or re-engagement). Most people go for compensation rather than returning to a workplace that just sacked them. The compensation for unfair dismissal has two parts: Basic Award and Compensatory Award. The Basic Award is a bit like a redundancy payment, it’s based on your age, years of service, and weekly pay (capped at a certain amount per week). It’s calculated as so many weeks of pay (e.g. 1 week per year of service, more if you’re over 41) . We’ll crunch those numbers for you. The Compensatory Award is for your actual losses, primarily your lost earnings because of the dismissal. The tribunal looks at how much money you lost from being out of work (or in a lower paid job) from the dismissal until you find new work, taking into account things like how long it reasonably takes to get a new job. They can also include things like loss of benefits (company car, pension contributions) and sometimes expenses for job hunt or moving for a new job. This compensatory award is capped by law (the cap is the lower of a year’s gross salary or a set figure that changes annually, roughly around £90k-ish currently). Notably, if you win on certain automatically unfair grounds or discrimination (which is a separate claim), compensation can be higher or uncapped, but plain unfair dismissal has that cap. Also, if you contributed to your dismissal (say you did something wrong too) or didn’t try hard to find a new job, the tribunal might reduce your award. In summary, you could get a few thousand pounds on the low end, to tens of thousands on the high end, depending on your salary and job search time. WeSueAnyone.com will help calculate a reasonable award and we often negotiate a settlement (sometimes termed a settlement agreement) with your employer to get an agreed sum and avoid the hearing. Many unfair dismissal cases settle with an agreement and reference for the employee. Our aim is to get you compensated fairly so you can move on with your life.

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What is constructive dismissal?

Constructive dismissal is a bit different but related concept: it’s when you resign because your employer’s behavior was so awful that you’re effectively forced out. In other words, your employer didn’t fire you outright, but they breached your contract or treated you so badly that you had no real choice but to quit. That resignation is then treated as an “unfair dismissal” initiated by the employer’s conduct. Examples: your boss demotes you without good reason, cuts your pay by 50% out of the blue, allows bullying or harassment to go unchecked, or seriously breaches trust (maybe falsifying your performance reviews). If you resign in direct response to that, asserting it was the last straw, that can be constructive dismissal. It’s basically saying: “I didn’t technically get fired, but I might as well have, they pushed me out.” These claims can be a bit tougher to win than ordinary unfair dismissal, because you have to show the employer’s breach was fundamental and that you resigned because of it (and not much later). But they follow the same process and time limit as unfair dismissal (3 months, Acas, tribunal, etc.), and you need 2 years’ service in most cases (unless the reason you were forced out was discriminatory or other automatically unfair reason). If you find yourself in a toxic workplace and feel compelled to quit, talk to us before resigning if possible, we can advise on how to do so in a way that best supports a constructive dismissal claim. Many people have won these claims when employers really cross the line. WeSueAnyone.com has helped clients turn a bad situation into a positive outcome through constructive dismissal claims. Don’t suffer in silence, if your job becomes truly unbearable due to your employer’s breach, this legal route is there to protect you.

housing

What is housing disrepair?

Housing disrepair refers to a rented property in poor condition due to needed repairs not being done. Basically, it means your home has defects or damage that the landlord should fix, but hasn’t, and as a result, the property is not reasonably suitable to live in. Examples of disrepair issues include: damp and mould growing on your walls, leaking roof or ceilings, broken heating or no hot water, rotten windows or doors, plumbing leaks, pest infestations, faulty wiring or gas issues, anything that makes the place unsafe or uncomfortable. If you’ve been reporting problems like these and your landlord shrugs it off or delays endlessly, the property is considered “in disrepair.” Tenants shouldn’t have to live with serious defects that can affect health and safety. Housing disrepair is not about minor wear-andtear or you wanting a fancy upgrade; it’s about the landlord failing to meet basic maintenance obligations. The good news: tenants have legal rights to get repairs done and even claim compensation if the landlord neglects their duties. At WeSueAnyone.com, we deal with housing disrepair cases day in, day out, holding negligent landlords accountable and improving living conditions for our clients. So if your rented home is falling apart around you (and your landlord isn’t stepping up), you’re likely dealing with housing disrepair.

housing

My landlord isn’t fixing things... what can I do?

First, notify your landlord in writing of the issues (if you haven’t already). It’s important to give them a chance to put things right, send a polite but clear email or letter listing the problems and asking for repairs. Keep a copy and note the date. Legally, landlords are obliged to keep your home in good repair and safe condition . According to the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 (for England and Wales), they must maintain the structure and exterior (roof, walls, windows), and keep essential installations for water, gas, electricity, sanitation, and heating in working order . Give them a “reasonable time” to fix things, what’s reasonable depends on the issue (a broken boiler in winter should be fixed in days, a leaky gutter maybe a couple of weeks). If they still don’t act, you have several options: you can report serious hazards to the council’s Environmental Health team (who can inspect and serve the landlord with an improvement notice). Or, you can pursue a housing disrepair claim through the courts, that’s where we come in. In a disrepair claim, you can ask the court to order the repairs and also claim compensation for inconveniences, health issues, or damaged belongings caused by the disrepair . WeSueAnyone.com’s housing team would gather evidence (photos, doctor’s notes if you got ill from mould, receipts for any damage to your stuff, etc.) to build your case. One thing: before suing, you typically should give the landlord a final warning (often 21 days notice in writing) that you’ll take legal action if they don’t fix the issues, we can draft that letter. If all else fails, we file a claim. The court can award you compensation and force the landlord to carry out repairs. Also, don’t withhold rent without advice, it can backfire legally. Better to go the proper route. You have a right to a habitable home, so don’t let a lazy landlord fob you off, take action.

housing

Can I claim compensation from my landlord for disrepair?

Yes, you can! If your landlord has failed to repair your home and you’ve suffered because of it, you may be entitled to compensation (damages). Compensation in housing disrepair cases usually covers a few things. Firstly, there’s often an amount for distress, inconvenience and loss of enjoyment, basically for having to live in substandard conditions. Lawyers sometimes calculate this as a percentage of your rent for the period of disrepair (for example, if your bedroom was unusable due to mould, you might get 30% of your rent back for that duration). Secondly, if the disrepair caused damage to your belongings (say your clothes or furniture got ruined by damp, or your TV got fried due to electrical faults), you can claim the cost of repair or replacement of those items. Thirdly, if you suffered ill health due to the disrepair (e.g. asthma worsened by mould, or injuries from a broken stair), you could claim for pain and suffering like in a personal injury claim. You need to prove the link (a doctor’s note helps). Also, any extra expenses you incurred, maybe higher heating bills because the windows were broken, or the cost of dehumidifiers, can be claimed. Importantly, you can claim compensation in addition to getting the repairs done. Often, just forcing the repair isn’t enough, you deserve something for putting up with it for so long. The amount will depend on how severe the issues were and how long they went unresolved. Cases we’ve handled at WeSueAnyone.com have ranged from a few hundred pounds for minor issues to tens of thousands for severe, long-term disrepair causing major health problems. So yes, don’t let the landlord’s neglect slide, you can get money back for your trouble. We’ll help quantify a fair sum and fight for it. (And don’t worry, claiming compensation does not legitimize the landlord in kicking you out, you have legal protections, as we’ll note next.)

housing

What are my landlord’s legal obligations for repairs?

Landlords have clear legal duties to keep your home in a good state of repair and safety. By law (in particular the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 for tenancies), a landlord must: maintain the structure and exterior of the dwelling (roof, walls, floors, foundations, windows, doors, keeping them free from rot, leaks, etc.), ensure the installations for water, gas, electricity, heating, and sanitation are working (so pipes, boilers, radiators, electrical wiring, toilets, baths, etc.), and keep the property free from serious hazards. They are also responsible for fire safety (smoke alarms, fire-safe furniture if furnished, etc.) and gas safety (annual gas safety checks) by other regulations. They should address problems within a reasonable time once notified, immediate dangers (gas leaks, electrical faults) should be fixed urgently, while minor repairs should still be done in a timely manner. The home should be fit for human habitation, there’s even the Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018 reinforcing that. Things like pervasive damp, mould, pest infestation, structural cracks, those are breaches of the landlord’s obligations. This applies to all landlords, council, housing association or private. Importantly, you as a tenant should report issues promptly and not intentionally or negligently cause the damage. But assuming it’s not your fault and it’s wear-and-tear or a fault, the landlord must step in. If they don’t, they’re breaching the contract and the law. As housing lawyers, we basically hold up the rulebook to them: “Hey, you have to fix this, it’s not optional!” If they ignore it, the courts can enforce those obligations. Landlords can’t contract out of these core duties. So if you’re worried you’re asking for too much by demanding repairs, you’re not. It’s literally their job.

housing

Can my landlord evict me if I complain or claim against them?

They shouldn’t be able to, the law offers protection against so-called “retaliatory eviction.” It’s a common fear: you raise a stink about disrepair and suddenly your landlord hits you with an eviction notice. In England (for assured shorthold tenancies), recent laws have cracked down on revenge evictions. If you report disrepair to the council and the council serves your landlord with an Improvement Notice or some enforcement notice, the landlord cannot use a no-fault Section 21 eviction for 6 months after that . Even without council involvement, if a landlord tries to evict purely because you asserted your right to repairs, you might have a defense. Shelter and other organizations advise that courts can deem a Section 21 invalid if it’s clearly retaliatory following a legitimate repair complaint. Also, landlords can’t evict without following the proper legal procedure (notice, then court order). If you’re up-to-date on rent and not in breach of your tenancy, a sudden eviction attempt in response to a disrepair claim can often be challenged. It’s worth noting that if you’re on a periodic or ending tenancy, a landlord could try to not renew or to evict with a valid notice, we can’t 100% stop a determined landlord from eventually regaining possession, but the law gives you some cover to pursue your rights without immediate fear. Frankly, many landlords back off and fix things once a formal claim is made, because they realize retaliating will get them in bigger trouble. At WeSueAnyone.com, we can also advise you on this and even connect you with housing charities if an eviction is attempted. But please don’t let fear of eviction keep you living in slum conditions, you have rights, and using them is not grounds for a lawful eviction. The system is increasingly on tenants’ side about this. (And the government has been discussing abolishing no-fault evictions entirely, stay tuned!) So, raise those complaints confidently. We’ve got your back if the landlord tries anything fishy.

commercial

What is a commercial dispute?

A commercial dispute is basically any disagreement or conflict in a business context. It usually involves companies or businesspeople fighting over something, often money, rights, or responsibilities arising from commerce. Common examples: a breach of contract between businesses (maybe a supplier didn’t deliver goods, or a client didn’t pay for services), partnership or shareholder disputes (business partners falling out over management or profit share), disputes with suppliers or vendors, franchise disagreements, intellectual property bust-ups between companies, etc. Even things like corporate disputes over business sales, or conflicts in commercial property (like a landlord-tenant fight over a business lease) fall under commercial disputes. In essence, if it’s not personal and it’s businessto- business (or within a business), it’s a commercial dispute. These cases can get complex because they might involve large sums, detailed contracts, and sometimes international elements. They can be heard in civil courts (often the High Court for big ones) or sometimes arbitration if a contract requires that. At WeSueAnyone.com, our commercial litigation team steps in to untangle these messy situations. We understand that for businesses, a dispute isn’t just about principles, it’s about the bottom line. Our aim is to resolve it efficiently, whether through negotiation, mediation, or a decisive court action, so you can get back to focusing on your business. Be it a broken deal or an unpaid invoice, if you’ve got a commercial quarrel, we’re equipped to handle it.

commercial

How are commercial disputes usually resolved?

Many commercial disputes get resolved by negotiation or settlement before they ever see a judge. Because court litigation can be costly and time-consuming, businesses often prefer to work out a deal. This could involve direct talks between the parties (or their lawyers) to reach a compromise, maybe a payment plan, or a refund/return of goods, or a revised contract. Another route is mediation, where an independent mediator facilitates a discussion to find common ground, this can be very effective in complex disputes. If those approaches fail, the dispute might go to arbitration (if there’s an arbitration clause, a private arbitrator can make a binding decision) or to court litigation in a civil court. In court, the process involves filing a claim, exchanging evidence (disclosure of documents, witness statements), possibly interim applications (like injunctions if you need urgent relief), and finally a trial where a judge decides the outcome. There’s also the specialist Commercial Court (a part of the High Court) for big, high-value business disputes, and the Technology and Construction Court or Chancery division for certain types, basically, there are tailored forums depending on the case. But again, most cases settle at some point along this journey. We often engage in “without prejudice” settlement discussions in parallel to preparing the case, to see if an agreement can be struck. Another aspect: sometimes using expert determination or industry arbitration (for example, in construction disputes adjudication is common) can resolve things. In summary, resolution can be achieved through a commercial deal (preferred) or a legal judgment (Plan B). WeSueAnyone.com will explore all avenues, we might send a sharp legal letter to bring the other side to the table, or if needed, swiftly issue proceedings to show we mean business. However it goes, we’ll aim to get you a favorable resolution with minimal disruption to your business operations.

commercial

How long do I have to bring a commercial claim (e.g. for breach of contract)?

Generally speaking, the time limit for most commercial claims (which are often based on contracts or common law) is 6 years from the date of the cause of action . In a contract dispute, that usually means 6 years from the breach of contract. So if a supplier failed to deliver goods on January 1, 2020, you’d typically have until December 31, 2025 to sue for that breach. If your claim is based on negligence (not involving personal injury) or other torts, it’s also often 6 years from when the damage occurred. One key exception: if the contract was executed as a deed (a special form of contract, often used in property transactions or certain agreements), the time limit extends to 12 years . Also, if the dispute is about something like a mistake or fraud, the clock might start when you discovered it (courts can extend for latent fraud). But as a rule of thumb in commercial matters, six years is the magic number. Note that for some specific claims (like defamation, one year, or claims under statute like competition law or certain finance claims) the period could differ, but those are less common in general commercial disputes. If you’re dealing with an international contract, sometimes the law of another country might apply and have different limits, but let’s not complicate things. The safest bet is always: act sooner rather than later. Six years can lull you into a false sense of security, memory fades, documents get lost. We always advise clients: don’t wait just because you technically can. Initiating action earlier puts you in a stronger position to preserve evidence and possibly catch the other side before they vanish or go bust. So, while you likely have a decent window to sue on a business dispute, pick up the phone and consult us as soon as the issue arises. We’ll confirm the limitation period for your specific case and ensure you don’t miss it.

commercial

What about legal costs in a commercial dispute... can I get them back?

In most commercial litigation, yes, if you win you can recover a significant portion of your legal costs from the losing party (as per the “loser pays” rule we discussed earlier) . However, commercial disputes can rack up substantial legal bills, so even a partial recovery might still leave some unrecovered costs. It’s something to consider at the outset, litigation should make economic sense. Sometimes businesses opt for alternative fee arrangements (like conditional fees or third-party funding) in big cases to manage cost risk. Also, many commercial contracts have clauses about legal fees or requiring mediation first, etc. We’ll review any contract terms on costs. On the flip side, if you lose, you might be liable for the other side’s costs, that’s why we often try to negotiate or use ADR to control the risk. Our approach at WeSueAnyone.com is to be upfront about potential costs and perhaps pursue settlement if legal costs would dwarf the dispute value. We can also strategically use Part 36 offers (a legal tactic in England), a formal settlement offer that, if improperly refused, puts the offeree at risk of paying costs. This often pressures a resolution. In summary, while cost recovery is likely if you win, you should never assume you’ll get every penny. We aim to maximize your net outcome, meaning the amount you gain after legal expenses. Often, a well-negotiated settlement saves both sides money that would otherwise be burned on lawyers. That said, if a fight is necessary, we’re ready and will seek costs orders in your favor aggressively.

commercial

Can we use mediation or arbitration instead of going to court?

Absolutely, and in many cases we encourage it. Mediation is very common in commercial disputes, an independent mediator helps both parties try to reach a voluntary settlement. It’s a confidential, without-prejudice process, meaning everyone can speak openly. Mediation can save relationships (important if you might still want to do business together) and often saves time and money. We can arrange a mediation pretty quickly, even before any court proceedings, or during the litigation before trial. Many contracts nowadays even require a mediation attempt before suing. Arbitration is another route, that’s basically a private court. If your contract has an arbitration clause, you’ll need to use that instead of court. An arbitrator (or panel) will act like a judge and give a binding decision. Arbitration is often used in international contracts, construction, shipping, etc. It’s usually confidential and the arbitrator can be chosen for expertise in the field. We have experience representing clients in arbitrations as well. There’s also adjudication (in construction disputes, a rapid decision process), and expert determination for niche issues. The upshot is: court is not the only way. In fact, courts often expect parties to have considered ADR (Alternative Dispute Resolution). If you refuse to mediate unreasonably, a court might penalize you in costs later. At WeSueAnyone.com, we’re skilled negotiators and we’ve seen mediation work wonders in seemingly intractable disputes. We will certainly discuss these options with you and, if it suits your case, pursue them vigorously. However, if the other side won’t play ball, or a principle or urgent injunction is at stake, we won’t hesitate to litigate. We tailor the approach to what’s best for your business interests.

Professional

What is professional negligence?

Professional negligence is when a professional (solicitor, accountant, architect, doctor, financial advisor, etc.) fails to perform their responsibilities to the standard expected, and you suffer a loss as a result. In simpler terms, it means the “expert” you trusted messed up in a way that a reasonably competent person in their field wouldn’t have. Examples: a solicitor missing a crucial deadline so your case got struck out, an architect designing a building with serious flaws, an accountant giving bad tax advice that costs you money, or a surveyor overlooking major defects in a house inspection. To be negligent, the professional must have owed you a duty of care (if you hired them or they knew you’d rely on their advice, that’s usually clear), they breached that duty by acting carelessly or below par, and that caused you a financial loss or damage . It’s not about an honest mistake that causes no harm, it’s about a blunder that bites you. If all those elements line up, you have a professional negligence claim. Professionals are expected to be skilled and diligent, when they aren’t, the law says you can claim compensation to put you in the position you’d be in if they had done their job right . At WeSueAnyone.com, yes, we even sue other lawyers when they’ve wronged our clients (talk about awkward at lawyer parties!). It’s an important area because people rely on specialists for big matters, and one slip can have serious consequences. Professional negligence law exists to hold them accountable and get you redress.

Professional

How do I prove a professional was negligent?

To succeed in a professional negligence claim, we need to prove three main things (on the “balance of probabilities” … i.e. more likely than not): 1) The professional owed you a duty of care. If you hired them or received advice directly, this is usually straightforward. 2) They breached that duty by not meeting the standard of a reasonably competent professional in that field . Often we measure this against common practice or guidelines; we might use an expert witness to testify what a competent practitioner should have done. Essentially, we show they made a mistake or oversight that an average peer wouldn’t have. 3) That breach caused you a loss. This part is crucial, we must link the negligence to a tangible harm. For instance, if a solicitor’s mistake lost you the chance to win a case, we’d show that the case was winnable and you lost out on compensation. Or if an accountant’s bad tax filing led to penalties, the penalties are your loss. No harm, no claim (even if they messed up). Sometimes causation is contested, like, the professional might say “Even if I did X wrong, it didn’t actually cause the outcome.” We’ll gather evidence to connect the dots. Additionally, we have to show the loss was a reasonably foreseeable consequence of their error (not some bizarre chain reaction). If we prove all the above, duty, breach, causation, loss, then you win the claim. It sounds a bit technical, but that’s our job. WeSueAnyone.com will collect documents, maybe get expert opinions (e.g. another lawyer to opine that your previous lawyer was indeed negligent), and build the case. Many professional negligence claims settle out of court once the evidence is presented, because professionals (or rather, their insurers) often prefer to cut a deal than risk court. But we prepare thoroughly as if going to trial. With the right proof lined up, we can hold even the slickest professionals to account.

Professional

Who can I sue for professional negligence?

You can sue any type of professional who fits the criteria we discussed, duty, breach, loss. Common targets (for lack of a better word) include: Solicitors and Barristers (legal professionals) … e.g. if they mishandled your case; Accountants and Auditors … e.g. gave faulty financial advice or messed up accounts; Architects, Engineers, Surveyors… e.g. building or property professionals who made errors in design or failed to spot issues in a survey; Doctors, Dentists, other Medical Professionals, though those usually fall under “medical negligence” which is a subset of professional neg.; Financial Advisors, Stockbrokers, bad investment advice can be negligence; Insurance Brokers, if they fail to get you proper coverage; Consultants or other Specialists who present themselves as having expertise. Even estate agents, solicitors, veterinarians, pretty much anyone you paid for a specialized service or advice. At WeSueAnyone.com, we’ll first ensure that the person or firm had a professional duty to you (like a contractual relationship or clear reliance on their advice). If yes, and they screwed up, they’re fair game. Most professionals carry Professional Indemnity Insurance , which is good news because it means if you win, there’s an insurer to pay your compensation. (So you’re not just trying to get money out of a potentially bankrupt individual, it’s usually an insurance company that foots the bill.) We always consider that because suing someone with no insurance or assets is pointless. The list of who can be sued is extensive, basically, if they held themselves out as an expert and you relied on them, they should do the job right or compensate you if they don’t . Don’t be shy about holding professionals accountable; they have insurance for this reason and it encourages higher standards.

Professional

Is there a time limit to bring a professional negligence claim?

Yes, like all claims, there’s a limitation period. Generally, you have 6 years from the date of the negligence to sue . For example, if your solicitor missed a deadline on 1st Jan 2020, you’d have until 1st Jan 2026 to file a claim. However, and this is important, sometimes you don’t find out about the negligence until later. Say that missed deadline case: you might not discover the mistake until 2022 when your case is struck out. The law covers this: if you have latent damage that you discovered later, you get 3 years from the date you became aware (or should have become aware) of the negligence, subject to an absolute long-stop of 15 years . So in that scenario, discovering in 2022, you’d have until 2025 (3 years) to claim, even though the mistake was in 2020, but there’s also a 15- year cap from the negligence no matter what. It’s a bit complex, but basically you won’t be time-barred before you even know you have a claim. Still, once you know something went wrong, don’t delay. Three years can zip by. And if it’s within 6 years of the event, definitely act within that. Also note: if the professional gave you flawed advice that has ongoing effects, pinning the exact date can be tricky, we’d figure that out for you. The safest course is to consult us as soon as you suspect a professional’s error cost you. We’ll ascertain your deadline. WeSueAnyone.com is very mindful of the time limits, nothing worse than having a solid claim but being out of time. So we’ll file protective proceedings before the deadline if needed. In short: usually 6 years from negligence, possibly extendable from when you knew of it… but get moving ASAP to be safe.

Professional

Will the professional’s insurance cover my compensation?

In most cases, yes. Virtually all bona fide professionals are required to have Professional Indemnity Insurance (PII). Solicitors, for example, must have it (through the SRA regulations) to practice, same for chartered surveyors (RICS rules), accountants (if chartered) and so on . This insurance is exactly for situations like this, when they mess up and owe a client money. So when we pursue a professional negligence claim, we’re really dealing with their insurer behind the scenes. Often, once we notify of a claim, the matter is handed to the insurance company and their lawyers. The good thing about this: if we settle or win, the payout comes from a deep-pocketed insurer, not directly from the individual or firm (who might not afford it). It also means you don’t have to feel too guilty, you’re usually not ruining someone’s life savings; they paid for insurance for this reason. Of course, insurance policies have limits, but typically the required cover is high enough for most claims (solicitors often carry at least £2-3 million in cover, for instance). There can be cases where a professional didn’t renew their insurance or has since ceased trading, in some fields there are safety nets (Solicitors have the Compensation Fund and run-off cover), but it can complicate things. We always check on the insurance aspect early on. If the professional is part of a firm, the firm’s insurance covers it. If it’s a one-man band but certified, they’ll have insurance. When we win a case or negotiate a settlement, the insurer pays out according to the policy. One more thing: because insurers are involved, these claims can sometimes be negotiated sensibly (insurers often prefer to settle valid claims to avoid legal costs). We leverage that in your favor. Rest assured, our aim is to get your losses compensated and that usually comes via the insurer’s cheque. So yes, assuming we’re suing a properly insured professional (and we’d advise if not), you have a high chance of actually seeing the money at the end of the day.

intellectual

What is intellectual property (IP)?

Intellectual property refers to creations of the mind that have commercial value and are protectable by law. It’s a fancy term for things like inventions, brand names, logos, literary and artistic works, designs, and other creative or innovative output. The main types of IP are: Patents, which protect new inventions or processes (the techy, innovative stuff); Trade Marks, which protect brand identifiers like names and logos (think the Nike swoosh or Coca-Cola name); Copyright: which protects original works of authorship like books, music, art, software code, etc.; Design Rights, which protect the visual appearance or shape of products; and Trade Secrets/Confidential Information, which covers secret formulas or business know-how (like the Coca-Cola recipe, kept secret rather than patented). Essentially, IP law gives creators and businesses exclusive rights to benefit from their creations or brand identity for a period of time. It prevents others from copying or using them without permission. For example, if you write a book, you automatically have copyright, no one can just print and sell your book without your consent. If you invent a better mousetrap and get a patent, you can stop others from making or selling that mousetrap for 20 years (in the UK). If you have a cool brand name and register a trademark, you can stop competitors from using confusingly similar names in your market. IP is intangible but can be extremely valuable (imagine the value of the Apple® trademark or the patent on a life-saving drug). WeSueAnyone.com’s IP team helps clients protect their intellectual creations and fight infringers. In short, intellectual property is what makes your idea legally yours.

intellectual

How can I protect my intellectual property?

There are a few ways, depending on the type of IP. Trademarks: You protect brand names/logos by registering a trade mark with the UK Intellectual Property Office (or internationally as needed). You file an application, and if granted, you get an ® symbol and exclusive rights to that mark in your industry. Even without registration, you have some passing off rights in unregistered marks, but it’s harder to enforce, so registration is highly recommended. Patents: To protect an invention, you need to apply for a patent, a rigorous process where you disclose the invention in a patent application. If successful, you get a monopoly (usually 20 years) on making/using/selling it, in exchange for the public disclosure. Key tip: keep the invention secret until you file, because public disclosure can ruin patentability. Copyright: Good news, you don’t have to register copyright in the UK, it arises automatically as soon as you create an original work and fix it (e.g. write it down, record it, etc.). To “protect” it practically, keep records of your creation (drafts, timestamps) to prove ownership if needed. You can also use © notices on your works to warn others. Designs: You can register a design (for the appearance of a product) to get stronger protection, but even unregistered design right exists for certain designs for a limited time. If your design is unique and important, go for registration. Trade Secrets: The best protection is confidentiality agreements (NDAs) and good internal security. Once a secret is out, the law can’t make it secret again, though you can sue the blabbermouth for breach. In general, proactively registering your IP rights where possible gives you more teeth. WeSueAnyone.com can help file trade marks, patents (with patent agent partners), and designs, or advise on copyright and trade secret strategy. Also, mark your territory, label things as “Confidential” or “© [Your Name]”. A big part of protection is also monitoring, watch for copycats or infringers and act promptly. Also note: IP is territorial UK registration covers the UK, so consider other key markets for protection. In sum: identify what kind of IP you have, use the legal registration systems for those that allow it, and use contracts or notices to shore up the rest. We’ll guide you through the IP fortification process.

intellectual

Someone is using my work/name without permission... what can I do?

This is infringement, and you have the right to take action to stop it and get compensation. First, you should gather evidence of the copying or unauthorized use (screenshots, samples, etc.). Then, usually the next step is to put the infringer on notice. Often we start with a cease and desist letter, a formal letter from our lawyers telling them they’re infringing your rights and demanding that they stop, remove or destroy infringing items, and perhaps compensate you. Sometimes a strong solicitor’s letter does the trick, especially if the infringement was unintentional or by someone who doesn’t want a legal fight . If that doesn’t work, we can consider Alternative Dispute Resolution (like a mediation or some industries have specific processes, for example, domain name disputes can go to arbitration or Nominet’s DRS). If all else fails, you can file a lawsuit for IP infringement. For trademarks or designs, that might be in the High Court or the Intellectual Property Enterprise Court (IPEC), which is a more streamlined court for IP cases; for copyright, likewise. In court, you can seek an injunction to immediately stop the infringing activity, plus damages or an account of profits (money they made off your IP) as compensation. The court can also order seizure or destruction of infringing goods. It’s worth noting that IP cases can be technical, so we sometimes use barristers specialized in IP. But fear not, plenty of them succeed, and many infringers back off once confronted. One tip: make sure your IP is actually protected (e.g. if it’s a trademark, is it registered? If copyright, is it clearly yours?). We’ll assess that. Another tip: act swiftly, letting someone infringe for too long can complicate things (they might claim you acquiesced). WeSueAnyone.com will help strategize the best approach, sometimes a friendly approach works, sometimes you need to go in guns blazing with a legal threat. And remember, 95% of IP disputes settle before court. So, chances are you won’t have to go all the way to trial, but we’ll be ready if needed. The key is, don’t ignore it. Protect your creations, the law is on your side.

intellectual

Do I need to register my trademark or can I rely on unregistered rights?

Technically, you can have some rights without registration (through what’s called passing off in the UK), but it’s much weaker and harder to enforce. Registering a trademark gives you a legal monopoly in your brand name or logo for the classes of goods/services you register, and it’s a lot easier to stop others from using confusingly similar marks. If you don’t register, you’d have to rely on passing off, which means proving that you have built up goodwill in the name, that the other person’s use is causing confusion among the public, and that it’s damaging your goodwill. That’s quite a bit to prove in court, it usually requires evidence of reputation (e.g. significant sales, advertising, etc. under that mark) and actual confusion. By contrast, if you have a registered ™, you just show the other side is using the same or similar mark for same or related goods, and boom. infringement (no need to prove reputation or confusion, it’s often presumed). Also, a registered trademark can be recorded with customs to block fake goods, etc. It’s an asset you can license or sell, too. Given that UK trademark registration isn’t terribly expensive (a few hundred quid and some time), it’s usually well worth it if your brand matters to you. There are some situations you might not need registration (maybe your use is very local or shortterm), but generally, registration is the gold standard. Same logic goes for design rights, unregistered design right exists but has quirks and limitations, while a registered design gives clear-cut protection. And patents, unregistered invention = no protection at all (once it’s public, anyone can copy unless you patent). Copyright is one area you can’t register in the UK (except a voluntary US registration, but not required), so for copyright, you rely on the automatic right and evidence of creation. In summary: if it’s a trademark or design and you plan to use it commercially, register it. It makes enforcement far easier, like having an attack dog vs. a leashed puppy when chasing off infringers. WeSueAnyone.com can help file and manage your registrations. If you’re already facing infringement with no registration, don’t despair, we can use passing off or other laws, but it’s a heavier lift. Moral: try to secure IP rights early to save headaches later.

intellectual

What if I’m accused of infringing someone’s IP?

Take it seriously, but don’t panic, and definitely don’t ignore it. If you receive a cease and desist letter or legal claim accusing you of IP infringement, the worst thing is to bin it; that could lead to a court injunction against you or default judgment. First, analyse the claim (with legal help ideally). Are you actually infringing? Sometimes accusations are overly broad or even baseless (some companies send scary letters hoping you’ll just cave). Check: do you use a mark or content that’s similar to theirs? If it’s copyright, did you independently create your work or inadvertently use theirs? If it’s a patent, are you truly using the patented process/product or is it a stretch? WeSueAnyone.com can help evaluate the merits. If you might be infringing, often the sensible move is to negotiate, maybe you can settle by stopping the use or paying a license fee. If you think you’re in the clear, we can respond robustly denying it. For example, if someone says you copied their logo but yours is clearly different or you were using it first, we’d send a rebuttal letter. Also, consider defenses: In trademark, maybe your use is descriptive or in a completely different industry; in copyright, maybe it’s fair use (though UK “fair dealing” is limited) or the work isn’t substantially similar; in patent, perhaps the patent is invalid or your product is different (non-infringing variant). If it escalates to a lawsuit, we’ll defend you in court. We might also consider invalidating their IP if appropriate (like counterclaim a trademark is generic or a patent was not novel). The key is to respond appropriately. Sometimes a minor change on your part (tweaking a logo or removing a contested image) can diffuse the situation. Other times, the principle or cost is worth fighting. We’ll also check if you have IP insurance (some businesses have insurance for IP disputes, could cover your legal fees). And remember, IP law isn’t meant to bully unjustly, you have rights too. If someone is overreaching (like claiming they own an idea that’s actually common or your legitimate comparative advertising is “trademark infringement”), we can push back. The worst outcome is defaulting and getting injuncted or heavy damages by not responding. So if you’re accused, get advice pronto. We’ll aim to protect your interests, whether through a reasonable settlement or a solid defence. Sometimes, the best defence is a good offense, we might find their IP is flawed. In short: don’t ignore, do investigate, and let us help you navigate it.

Celebrity

What services do you offer for celebrity and sports clients?

We provide a full suite of legal representation for celebrities, athletes, and media personalities, essentially acting as your personal legal team to handle the unique issues that high-profile individuals face. This includes negotiating and drafting contracts (for example, endorsement deals, sponsorship agreements, appearance contracts, brand ambassador roles, book or music contracts, film/TV agreements for entertainers, and sports contracts with teams or transfer agreements). We also advise on image rights and licensing, making sure you can monetize your name/likeness and prevent unauthorized use. For athletes, we deal with things like contract disputes with clubs, selection issues, disciplinary proceedings (if you’re facing, say, a league sanction or doping allegation, we’ve got you covered). For actors/performers, we review performance contracts, tour agreements, and even help with union or guild issues. WeSueAnyone.com basically becomes a trusted advisor on all your legal matters, so you can call us if you have a dispute with a manager or agent, if a brand didn’t pay you, or if you need a contract reviewed in a hurry. We also handle the less glamorous but important stuff like intellectual property protection (trademarking your stage name, for instance), setting up loan-out companies or other business entities to manage income, and even wills/estate planning to protect your assets. In short, if you’re a celeb or sports pro, your legal needs are often multifaceted, we act as the legal quarterback on your team, coordinating everything and fighting your battles so you can focus on your career. And don’t worry, if you’re not an A-lister (yet!), we treat every client with star-level service. Our tone may be cheeky, but we take your matters deadly serious.

Celebrity

Can you help if the media or paparazzi violate my privacy or defame me?

Absolutely… Protecting our clients’ reputation and privacy is a huge part of what we do for highprofile individuals. If a newspaper, website or social media post has published defamatory statements about you (basically false information that seriously harms your reputation), we can take action with a defamation claim (libel for written, slander for spoken). UK defamation law requires showing the statement is false and caused or is likely to cause serious harm to your reputation (for companies, serious financial loss), which is a bar we’ll assess. We can often first demand an apology, retraction, and takedown of the offending content. If they refuse, we can sue for damages. We also have tools like the Defamation Act 2013 that allow us to get remedies. On the privacy side, if paparazzi or others intrude into your private life, whether it’s surreptitious photos of you at home, leaks of personal information or stolen intimate images, we can seek injunctions to stop publication and sue for misuse of private information. UK law gives significant weight to privacy, especially for things like your health, your children, or your home life, balanced against the press’s freedom of expression. We’ve helped clients obtain court orders to block newspapers from publishing certain stories or images. There’s also the Harassment Act if someone’s persistently stalking or harassing you. And if your phone was hacked or data misused, we pursue that too. Essentially, whether it’s a tabloid spreading a nasty rumour or a paparazzo stepping over the line, WeSueAnyone.com will come out swinging. We might coordinate with PR crisis managers too, because legal and PR often go hand-in-hand for celebs. The goal is to protect your public image and your personal sanity. We act fast, in defamation/privacy, speed is key (sometimes we can get an emergency injunction within hours if needed). So yes, if the press or anyone else is violating your rights, give us a call. We’ll help muzzle the madness and keep your name clean. You have a right to your good name and some personal space, we’ll help you defend it.

Celebrity

Do you handle defamation cases for high-profile clients?

Yes, indeed. We have specialists who handle defamation (libel and slander) cases for celebrities, public figures, and also private individuals. For our high-profile clients, reputation is everything, and a damaging false allegation in the media or online can have huge consequences for career and personal life. When a defamatory claim arises, say a newspaper publishes a false story accusing you of something scandalous. We move swiftly. First, we assess if it meets the threshold of “serious harm” under UK law (since the Defamation Act 2013, a statement isn’t defamatory unless it caused or is likely to cause serious harm to your reputation ). For most outright false and nasty allegations, that’s usually evident (for a celeb, even an untrue rumour can be seriously harmful given the wide audience). We often start with a legal complaint letter to the publisher demanding removal/retraction and an apology. Many media outlets will negotiate at this point to avoid a lawsuit, perhaps issuing an apology and paying your legal costs, sometimes even damages in settlement. If they don’t, we’ll file a defamation claim in the High Court. We’ll gather evidence of the falsity and the impact on you (loss of contracts, distress, public ridicule, maybe refer to how widely it was shared). Sometimes these cases can get to trial, where we’d present your case, and trust us, we’d relish putting a reckless journalist or Twitter loudmouth in the hot seat. Remedies we seek: damages (which can range from a few thousand to six figures in very egregious cases), injunctions to stop further publication, and statements in open court (a formal public vindication). We can also do something called a Norwich Pharmacal order if we need to unmask an anonymous online defamer by getting the platform to reveal their identity. We also represent clients on the flip side, if you’re accused of defamation for something you said, we can defend you (maybe it was true, truth is a defense, or an honest opinion, or trivial). But our ultimate aim is safeguarding your reputation. We act discreetly when needed, some matters can be resolved quietly with a well-crafted letter before action. Other times, going public with a lawsuit actually helps clear your name. We’ll strategize the best approach for your situation. Bottom line: if someone libels you, whether in print, online or elsewhere, we stand ready to sue anyone on your behalf (living up to our name!) to set the record straight.

Celebrity

Can you assist with sports law issues, like contracts or disciplinary hearings?

Definitely. For athletes and sports professionals, we handle a range of sports law matters. On the contract side, we negotiate and review player contracts with clubs (ensuring the terms are fair, salary and bonuses are maximized, release clauses if needed, etc.), and also transfer agreements if you’re moving clubs. We ensure your rights are protected in contracts and that they comply with league regulations. We also handle endorsement and sponsorship deals for athletes, making sure you’re not giving away your image rights for peanuts and that the obligations (like appearances, social media posts) are reasonable. If you have an agent, we can work alongside or review the agent’s dealings; if you don’t and need representation, we fill that gap.

On disciplinary matters: if you’re facing a sporting disciplinary hearing, maybe a misconduct charge, a doping allegation, or an appeal against a red card suspension, we can represent you in front of the relevant body (be it the FA tribunal, a rugby union disciplinary panel, etc.). We know the procedures and can present your case or mitigation to get the best outcome. For example, we’ve defended players in doping cases by challenging testing protocols or proving no significant fault, and we’ve represented athletes accused of on-field or off-field misconduct, aiming for acquittal or reduced sanctions. We also assist with sports injury claims (if someone’s negligence caused you career-impacting injury, sometimes you can claim beyond what league insurance provides), and selection disputes (though those are tough legally, we can advise). Another area is image rights companies, many top athletes structure image endorsements through a separate company for tax/cap reasons; we can set that up properly and make sure it’s all legal.

For coaches and managers, we handle your employment contracts and exits (unfair dismissal from a club? we got you). Basically, we understand the sports world runs by its own rules (and often has its own arbitration or dispute resolution fora, like CAS - Court of Arbitration for Sport - for international issues) and we navigate those.

Whether you’re a Premier League star, an Olympic athlete, or a local club player with a legal issue, we tailor our approach. Sports is a passion area for us, and yes, we’ll try not to fan-boy too much if you’re famous (professional at all times!). The key thing: we handle the legal side so you can focus on your game.

Celebrity

Will my legal matters be kept confidential?

Absolutely, confidentiality is paramount, especially for celebrity and sports clients, but truly for all our clients. As solicitors, we’re bound by strict professional confidentiality rules. Anything you discuss with us or any action we take on your behalf is kept private unless and until there’s a need to publicize (and then only with your consent). If we send letters or file claims, we often do so in a way to minimize media exposure unless using the media is part of the strategy that you agree with. We can also seek to have certain court hearings in private or anonymize proceedings in sensitive cases (for example, if we’re seeking an injunction over leaked private photos, we might apply for the case name to be “ABC vs XYZ” to keep your identity out of it initially). We’re used to working with NDAs, if you require additional confidentiality agreements with anyone we involve (like barristers or experts), we arrange that. In negotiations, we typically mark communications as “private and confidential” or “without prejudice” to ensure they don’t get splashed out.

When you’re in the public eye, we know even the fact that you contacted lawyers could be a story, trust that our lips are sealed. Internally, only the team handling your case will know the details. We also can communicate via your preferred secure channels. If paparazzi or others contact us for comment, we take your lead on what (if anything) to say. Often our line is a firm “no comment” unless you instruct us to make a public statement on your behalf. We’ve acted for high-profile individuals where the entire matter was resolved behind the scenes with zero press. And if it does end up in court and might become public, we prepare PR strategy with you (possibly via your publicist) to manage the narrative.

In summary, discretion is in our DNA. We want you to feel safe telling us anything, that way we can represent you effectively. The only time we might divulge something is if required by law or regulation (like a court order or to prevent a serious crime, etc., which is extremely rare and we’d advise you if ever relevant). Otherwise, consider us your confessional, what you say here, stays here. Your trust is our asset, and we guard it zealously.

Consumer

What is a consumer claim?

A consumer claim is when you, as a consumer (an individual buying goods or services for personal use), take action because something went wrong with what you purchased. It’s basically holding businesses accountable when they don’t play fair or sell you something shoddy. Common consumer claims include: getting a refund or compensation for faulty goods, substandard services, items that are not as described, or mis-sold financial products. For example, if you bought a laptop that keeps crashing or a used car that turned out to be a lemon, that’s a potential consumer claim. Or if a builder did a terrible job on your home renovation, you could claim for breach of contract/consumer rights. Also, being overcharged or hit with unfair terms (like hidden fees) could lead to a claim under consumer protection laws. Essentially, whenever a business fails to meet its legal obligations to you as a customer, you have the right to seek a remedy. These claims often rely on laws like the Consumer Rights Act 2015, which sets out that goods must be of satisfactory quality, fit for purpose, and services must be performed with reasonable care and skill. If those standards aren’t met, you have recourse. Consumer claims often start with complaining to the company, possibly going through an ombudsman or ADR if applicable, and if that fails, going to the County Court (often the small claims track if under £10k) to seek your money back or damages. At WeSueAnyone.com, we help consumers navigate this and take on businesses, from big retailers and banks to rogue tradesmen, to get fair outcomes. So, if you’ve been ripped off, misled, or sold a dud, that’s what we mean by a consumer claim.

Consumer

What are my rights if I buy something that turns out to be faulty?

You have strong rights under the Consumer Rights Act 2015. When you buy goods in the UK, they must be of satisfactory quality, fit for purpose, and as described. If an item is faulty (meaning it’s defective or doesn’t meet the above criteria), you have a few tiers of remedies: - Within 30 days: You have an absolute right to reject the goods and get a full refund . This is essentially a 30-day moneyback guarantee enshrined in law for faulty products. So if your new gadget breaks or isn’t working properly within the first month, you can return it and demand your money back, no ifs or buts. - After 30 days (and up to 6 months): The retailer must be given a chance to repair or replace the item . You can choose which (repair vs replace) and they have to do it within a reasonable time and without significant inconvenience to you. If the repair or replacement isn’t possible or fails, then you’re entitled to a refund or a price reduction. Notably, within that first 6 months, the law presumes the fault was there at purchase unless the seller can prove otherwise, so it’s on them to sort it out. - After 6 months: Your rights continue, up to 6 years actually (5 in Scotland) under general limitation for contract claims, but after 6 months the burden shifts, you might have to prove the product was inherently faulty or that the fault is not due to misuse. You can still seek a repair or replacement, and if not feasible, a partial refund accounting for the use you’ve had. Many manufacturers have warranties, but those are in addition to your statutory rights, not instead of. - Digital goods/services: There are similar rights now for digital content, if, say, an app or game is faulty, you can get a repair or replacement or refund in some cases. In practical terms: always report the fault to the retailer (your contract is with the seller, not the manufacturer, so chase the retailer primarily). If they fob you off, know the law is on your side. WeSueAnyone.com can intervene if a stubborn retailer won’t honor these rights. Which? and Citizens Advice also have good resources on this. But key point: you’re not stuck with a dud. Whether it’s a toaster that doesn’t toast or a TV that dies after a week, the law gives you clear remedies, especially that golden 30-day full refund window . Use it! And beyond that, insist on repair/replace and then refund if those don’t work out. Don’t let a retailer’s return policy (which might say 14 days or “no refunds”) mislead you, statutory rights override store policies. We’ll back you up on that.

Consumer

Can I get a refund or compensation for a bad service experience?

Yes, the Consumer Rights Act also covers services. When you pay someone to do a service, be it a plumber fixing your boiler, a caterer for your event, or a holiday package, the law says the service must be performed with reasonable care and skill, within a reasonable time (if no specific time agreed), and at a reasonable price (if no fixed price agreed). If the service provider fails in these duties, you’re entitled to remedies. For example, say you hired decorators and they did a shoddy job painting your house (streaks everywhere, didn’t prep surfaces). That’s not reasonable care and skill. Your remedies could include: asking them to redo the work properly at no extra cost (within a reasonable time), essentially give them a chance to fix it. If that’s not possible or they refuse, you can get a price reduction, up to 100% (i.e. a full refund) if the service was totally unsatisfactory. Another scenario: you paid for a nextday delivery service and it arrived a week late, you could claim back perhaps the extra fee you paid for expedited service, or more if that delay caused you loss. If a travel agent messes up your holiday booking, you can claim compensation for the inconvenience and any costs incurred. There’s also specific regulations for holiday packages and flights (e.g. ATOL, EU261 for flight delays) that give rights to compensation. In general, with services, document what went wrong: take photos, keep receipts, note dates and conversations. Complain to the provider first, many will offer a partial refund or to fix it. If they don’t, you might threaten legal action. For small claims (under £10k in England), you can use the simple court process to claim a refund or damages. WeSueAnyone.com can assist with drafting a claim or a stern letter to get them to cough up. If the poor service caused additional losses (say the caterer’s failure ruined your event and you had to compensate guests), you can claim those consequential losses too, as long as they’re not too remote. The goal in compensation is to put you in the position as if the service had been done properly. So yes, don’t suffer in silence, whether it’s a botched hair treatment, a half-finished building work, or any service that left you saying “I want my money back,” the law backs you up. You can get a refund or price reduction, and if needed, take them to task legally.

Consumer

What if I was misled or scammed by a business?

If a business misled you into buying something, that could be a misrepresentation or breach of consumer protection laws, you have remedies. Misrepresentation (false statements that induced you to contract) can allow you to undo the deal and get your money back, or get damages if you prefer. For example, a car dealer tells you a car has never been in an accident, but it has, that’s misrepresentation. You could return the car for a full refund (rescission). There’s also the Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations 2008 which make it illegal for traders to use misleading actions or aggressive sales tactics. The CMA and Trading Standards can enforce those, but you also now have a private right to civil redress under those regs (the Consumer Protection (Amendment) Regs 2014), basically, if you were subjected to a misleading or aggressive practice, you can unwind the 2015) transaction within 90 days or get a discount on price, and even claim damages for additional loss or distress in some cases. If you were outright scammed (like fraud), you might also report to Action Fraud or the police, but for recouping money, often it’s a civil route unless the scammer is caught and ordered to compensate victims. We help clients who’ve been mis-sold things like insurance, investments, or timeshares, etc. For instance, the big PPI scandal, people claimed for being mis-sold payment protection insurance. If you were tricked by unfair terms, the Consumer Rights Act can also strike out unfair contract terms … e.g. hidden fees or terms no one would expect can be deemed unenforceable. If a trader breached the Consumer Contracts Regulations (like online sales rules, not providing cancellation rights for distance sales), that can also give you cancellation rights. In a nutshell: if you feel duped, there’s likely a legal remedy. We would gather evidence of what was represented vs reality, and then either negotiate a refund or sue under misrep or consumer law. Many industries have ombudsmen too (financial ombudsman, energy ombudsman, etc.) for disputes, that can be a free way to get redress. We can guide you through those if applicable. The main point: you’re not powerless if you got scammed. Even if the scammer vanished, sometimes your bank can do a chargeback, or under Section 75 of the Consumer Credit Act, your credit card company is jointly liable if you paid by credit card (for transactions £100-£30,000). That means you can claim your money back from the credit card issuer for misrepresentation or breach by the seller. That’s a nifty consumer tool. So yes, there are multiple avenues to get your money back or compensation if you were misled or cheated, we’ll use whatever fits best.

Consumer

How do I pursue a consumer claim... do I need to go to court?

The process can vary, but often consumer disputes can be resolved without a full court trial. Here’s typically how to pursue it: 1. Complain to the company, Use their customer service or complaints procedure first. Do it in writing, be clear about the issue and what you want (refund, repair, etc.), and keep records. Many companies will resolve it at this stage to keep customers happy or avoid escalation.

  1. Ombudsman or ADR, If it’s something like financial services, energy, telecoms, or transport, there’s often a free Ombudsman scheme. For example, unresolved bank complaints go to the Financial Ombudsman Service (FOS); faulty new cars might go to Motor Ombudsman if dealer’s signed up; travel packages to ABTA or ATOL scheme, etc. These bodies can investigate and make binding decisions or recommendations. It’s usually faster and cost-free. Sometimes mediation or arbitration is available via sector schemes or even the retailer (some big retailers might agree to independent mediation). 3. Consumer protection agencies… You can report to Trading Standards or Citizens Advice consumer helpline. While they might not solve your individual case, if it’s a wider issue they might act. In some cases, Trading Standards might help mediate with a local trader. 4. Small Claims Court, If those fail, the courts are the last resort. For most consumer claims which are usually under £10,000, it will be a small claim in the County Court. That process is designed for individuals without lawyers (though we can assist in the background or represent if needed). It’s relatively straightforward: you file a claim online via Money Claim Online or a paper form, pay a fee (which the defendant pays you back if you win), the defendant has a few weeks to respond. If they defend, the court will set a hearing date. Small claims hearings are informal, often in a judge’s chambers, and you tell your story; the judge asks questions. No huge legal costs risk in small claims (each pays their own costs generally). WeSueAnyone.com can help you prepare the claim particulars, gather evidence, and even represent you on the day if you prefer, but we’ll be mindful that cost of representation might outweigh the claim, we’d discuss that. If the claim is above £10k, it could go to the fast track or multi-track, more formal, might be worth having a lawyer, and loser pays some costs. But many consumer cases are within small claims limit. 5. Group claims or class actions, If it’s a big issue affecting many (like a faulty product line or mis-sold service to thousands), sometimes group litigation or a class action (in US terms) can be formed. We’ve seen this with things like diesel emissions scandals, etc. Joining a group can share cost and strength. 6. Enforcement, If you win in court and the business doesn’t pay up, you may need to enforce the judgment (bailiffs, etc.). We’d advise on that as well. Often, just the threat of small claims court will prompt a business to settle, they’d rather not waste time. We can draft a Letter Before Action quoting all the relevant laws and your intent to sue if not resolved. That often does the trick. So, you might not actually have to go to court; but being willing to sends a message. In summary, start with direct complaint, escalate to ombudsman if available, and use court as a backup. And no, you don’t always need a lawyer, small claims is meant for laypeople. But if you feel unsure, we can assist at any stage, even if just to review your case and ghost-write your court papers. The aim is to get you justice without undue hassle.

Consumer

Can I take legal action against a scam or fraud, or is it only a police matter?

You can certainly take civil legal action if you know who scammed you and they have assets, though practicality is an issue. Fraudsters often vanish or spend the money. The police (via Action Fraud) is one route, if they catch the culprit, a court might order compensation in a criminal case. But that’s out of your control and often limited. Meanwhile, civil action, suing for deceit (fraud) or unjust enrichment, is possible. We’d have to serve them papers, which requires knowing their identity and address. If it’s an online scam, that can be tough. We could potentially get a court order to force, say, an ISP or platform to give us info (Norwich Pharmacal Order) if we have some leads like an IP address or username. If the fraud was through a bank transfer, sometimes banks can freeze or reverse it if alerted quickly. If via credit card, use Section 75 or chargeback as mentioned.

Another angle: If multiple victims exist, sometimes a group suit or a representative action might be done (rare in UK, but possible). Also, sometimes the companies facilitating the scam can be liable… e.g. if you were scammed via a bank, maybe the bank had a duty if it was an “authorized push payment” fraud (there’s a code of practice among banks to reimburse certain fraud victims now). Or if you bought via an online marketplace, sometimes they offer guarantees or could be argued to have some responsibility if they didn’t vet sellers (though that’s tricky, most disclaim liability).

If the scammer is identifiable (like a rogue tradesman who took your money and ran without doing work), definitely we can sue them for breach of contract or fraud. We could also put a winding-up or bankruptcy petition if they owe multiple people money, sometimes that scares payment out of them. However, chasing professional fraudsters can be like squeezing water from a stone. We’ll give honest advice on cost/benefit. It might be that alerting authorities and using consumer safety nets (like credit card protection) is more effective. But if it’s a substantial loss and we have a target, we will pursue through courts zealously. Perhaps even obtain a freezing order if we think they’ll dissipate assets (needs strong case).

In short: you’re not limited to just complaining to police. Civil remedies can complement. We often do both… e.g. report to police and sue in civil court. One doesn’t preclude the other (though if the police seize assets, they might distribute to victims after a conviction, which is good).

We know it feels frustrating to be scammed. WeSueAnyone.com lives for holding bad actors accountable. So if there’s a legal path to get your money back or at least some justice, we’ll chart it. Sometimes just receiving a lawyer’s letter will cause a scammer (the less hardened kind) to cough up rather than get entangled further. The hardened criminals might ignore us, but then we explore all legal pressure points available.

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Client Testimonials

Commercial Disputes, 5 stars, High-quality commercial legal support. They guided us through a complex dispute and we came out on top.
Michael A, Leeds
The team provided excellent advice for my company’s legal issue. Professional service and a positive resolution.
Susan D, Birmingham
Highly recommend them for negligence claims. They were thorough in building my case and achieved a positive outcome.
Christopher A., Leeds
Excellent result on my consumer claim. They got me a refund and compensation after I was sold a faulty product.
Susan M, London

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