Dispute avoidance and resolution

We are experts at resolving construction disputes. With a team of seven partners and 25 lawyers, we have the strength in depth to tackle the largest and most complex problems arising on UK and international projects. This experience extends across the whole disputes process, whether alternative dispute resolution, adjudication, arbitration or litigation.

We understand that when costly risk events occur on construction projects, even the best relationships can be tested. In such situations, we recognise that your key objective will be to secure the best possible outcome without damaging valuable relationships. We can help you avoid disputes by providing clear and balanced advice that enables you to negotiate any problems and prevent them from escalating unnecessarily.

Where disputes cannot be avoided, we have developed our own products to help you understand clearly, from the outset, the risks inherent in taking forward or defending claims. We present this information in a transparent way that can be measured, monitored and updated, so you can make informed commercial decisions about strategy and resources at all times. Wherever possible, we look for ways to share the risk in the outcome of disputes, thereby aligning our interests more closely with yours.

We keep our teams lean and partner-led. We strive for total continuity, not just on individual cases but by creating dedicated teams for longstanding clients. You will always know who is dealing with your case and find them readily accessible.

• "RPC is ‘experienced in understanding the commercial imperatives that drive the resolution of disputes’, particularly for insurers" - The Legal 500, 2012 edition
• "Strong presence in the construction sector on both contentious and transactional instructions... a notable reputation for its insurance-related expertise" - Chambers UK 2012

Examples of relevant work

Recent major construction disputes where we have been called in include:

• Wembley Stadium
• Gerrards Cross tunnel collapse
• Bath Spa
• Castlepoint Shopping Centre
• Power station, Kosova
• Bridge, Korea

For more information, please contact Robert Hogarth (robert.hogarth@rpc.co.uk)