Questions for lawyers Found 20

The business next door runs machinery late into the night, and we have not had a proper sleep in weeks. We have asked politely, and the owner just shrugs. Can we go to court, or is there a quicker way to solve this?

My lawyer sent a bill that is much higher than the estimate I was given, and I was not told the costs were rising. I do not feel comfortable confronting them. What can I do if I think the fees are unfair?

A client owes my small business a sizeable sum for work I completed months ago. They keep promising to pay but never do. I would like to know where I should take a claim, how much it is likely to cost and whether I really need a lawyer to do it.

A tradesperson did poor work on my house several years ago and I only recently discovered the full extent of the problem. I am worried I have run out of time. What are the time limits for bringing a civil claim in New Zealand?

We are in a dispute with a neighbour’s builder over a property boundary and damage to our land. A friend suggested mediation but I doubt it will work with such bad feelings. How does mediation work and why might it be better than going straight to court?

I am drafting a service contract for my consulting business and I want to avoid costly disputes down the track. What should a good dispute resolution clause include, and should I pick mediation, arbitration or court?

We won an arbitration in another country against a New Zealand company, which now says the award means nothing here. We want to know whether New Zealand courts will recognise it and how difficult the process is.

My business signed a supply contract that says all disputes must go to arbitration. A serious dispute has arisen and I would prefer to sue in court. Am I stuck with arbitration, and what does that mean for costs and confidentiality?

I received a notice from the court that a judicial settlement conference has been scheduled in our case. My lawyer says I must attend in person, but I do not see the point when both sides are so far apart. What happens at one?

I obtained a court judgment against a former customer, but months later I have received nothing. They ignore letters and it is unclear whether they have assets. Winning seems pointless if I cannot collect. What enforcement options do I actually have?