Litigation & Disputes

Disputes can arise without warning and quickly become stressful, time consuming, and commercially disruptive if not handled effectively. Our Litigation and Dispute Resolution team provides clear, strategic support to help you manage conflict with confidence. We work with individuals, professionals, landowners, trustees, and business owners, advising on a wide range of contentious matters and tailoring our approach to your specific goals.

Litigation & Disputes

Disputes can arise unexpectedly and often at the most challenging moments. Whether they involve your business, property, finances, or personal affairs, they can quickly become stressful, time‑consuming, and commercially damaging if not handled correctly. Our Litigation and Dispute Resolution team provides clear, strategic support to help you resolve conflicts efficiently and protect your interests at every stage.

We advise individuals, professionals, landowners, trustees, and business owners across a wide range of contentious matters. Our approach is proactive and solutions‑driven. From the outset, we work to understand your objectives, assess your legal position, and provide straightforward advice on the options available to you—whether that involves negotiation, mediation, or formal court proceedings.

Strategic Advice for a Wide Range of Disputes

Our team supports clients in disputes of all complexities, including:

  • Contractual disputes, such as disagreements over goods, services, and commercial agreements
  • Property disputes, including boundary issues, landlord and tenant matters, and rights of way
  • Professional negligence claims against solicitors, surveyors, financial advisors, or other professionals
  • Shareholder and partnership disputes, helping protect business continuity and personal interests
  • Debt recovery and enforcement matters, including claims, statutory demands, and judgment enforcement
  • Contentious probate and estate disputes, including will challenges and inheritance claims
  • Consumer disputes relating to misrepresentation, faulty goods, or poor‑quality services

We understand that no two disputes are the same. Each situation requires careful assessment and a tailored strategy. Our team combines technical expertise with commercial awareness to deliver solutions aligned with your priorities—whether that is protecting relationships, minimising financial exposure, or achieving a swift resolution.

Resolving Disputes Efficiently and Proactively

While some disputes inevitably call for robust litigation, many can be resolved more efficiently through early negotiation or alternative dispute resolution (ADR). We regularly represent clients in mediation, arbitration, and other ADR processes, helping them avoid the cost and disruption of prolonged court proceedings wherever possible.

When litigation is necessary, we provide strong, pragmatic representation throughout the entire process. We prepare clear pleadings, gather and assess evidence, negotiate where appropriate, and advocate effectively on your behalf. Our aim is always to deliver the best possible outcome while managing risk and cost proportionately.

Clear Communication and Practical Support

Legal disputes can feel overwhelming, particularly when the issues are technical or emotionally charged. Our team is committed to providing clarity and reassurance at every stage. We explain your options in plain English, provide regular updates, and offer realistic advice so you always know where you stand.

We also help clients take preventative steps to avoid future disputes, including reviewing contracts, implementing risk‑management strategies, and offering guidance on effective business practices.

Protecting Your Interests, Every Step of the Way

Whatever the nature of your dispute, our Litigation and Dispute Resolution team is here to guide you through it with confidence. With a focus on strategic thinking, practical solutions, and high‑quality representation, we work tirelessly to protect your interests and secure a resolution that supports your long‑term goals.

Team Members

Steve Wengraf

Partner

Steve Wengraf

Steve qualified in 1993 and became a Partner at Rutherfords in 2003.

Steve has wide litigation experience. He advises both individuals and business clients on various types of litigation and dispute resolution matters. These include professional negligence, business disputes of all types, landlord and tenant disputes, property disputes and general contractual disputes. He frequently attends in the County Court and High Court.

Steve also undertakes Claimant personal injury work. He became a member of the Law Society Personal Injury Panel in 1997. Steve deals with all types of  personal injury work (particularly catastrophic injury claims) including representing client’s interests in the Coroners Court.

In addition, Steve supervises Rutherfords’ Debt Recovery Department and Employment Department in his capacity as Litigation Partner.

Steve acts as the firm`s Compliance Officer for Finance and Administration (COFA) and Money Laundering reporting Officer (MLRO).

Solicitor

Katie Whelan

Katie is a Solicitor working in the Litigation department. Katie joined Rutherfords in 2021 gaining legal experience alongside studying at university

Katie has a first-class honours degree in Law, a postgraduate degree (the Legal Practice Course) and a masters degree in law.

Katie is a solicitor assisting partner Steve Wengraf in the Litigation department. Katie assists with matters including debt recovery, personal injury and dispute resolution matters which includes landlord and tenant disputes, business disputes and general contractual disputes. Katie also frequently attends the County Court to represent clients.  

Services

Call us on: 01827 311411

Ventura House, Ventura Park Road,
Tamworth, Staffordshire B78 3HL
T: 01827 311411
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