Dispute Resolution & Litigation
Litigation and Dispute Resolution Lawyers in Geelong
At Whyte, Just & Moore, we understand that disputes can be challenging and emotionally taxing. We’ll help you take your next steps towards resolution.
Our Litigation & Dispute Resolution team is led by Principal and accredited Commercial Litigation Specialist Will Punivalu. We’re dedicated to resolving your conflict in a timely, cost-effective, and compassionate manner.
Contractual and commercial litigation
Disputes with builders, contractors, or developers over defective work, delays, or payment claims.
Building and construction disputes
Guidance through the liquidation process, including your obligations as a director and what happens to the company's assets and creditors.
Will and estate disputes
Challenges to a will’s validity or claims that a will didn’t adequately provide for a loved one. Led by our Principal, Aaron Jolly, an Accredited Specialist in Wills & Estates with a focus on dispute resolution and litigation.
Learn more about disputes relating to wills, estates, trusts, and superannuation.
Retail and commercial tenancy disputes
Disputes between landlords and tenants over lease terms, rent, repairs, or termination.
Bankruptcy and insolvency
Conflicts involving insolvent businesses, unpaid debts, or director obligations.
See our Insolvency services.
Directors’, partnership, and shareholder disputes
Disputes between business partners and/or shareholders over decisions, obligations, or exit terms.
Consumer disputes and defamation
Consumer rights, misleading conduct, reputational harm and more.
Debt recovery and compulsory acquisitions
Recovering money owed to you, or advice if your property is subject to compulsory acquisition.
We strive to resolve disputes amicably wherever possible, saving you time, cost, and stress.
Litigation Support When Court Action is Necessary
Some disputes can’t be resolved without a formal hearing. Our team is experienced in managing disputes that involve complex legal issues and multiple parties.
Our team represents clients across every relevant jurisdiction in Victoria, including:
Why Choose
Whyte, Just & Moore
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Accredited Specialists
Our team is led by Will Punivalu, an Accredited Specialist in Commercial Litigation (one of a small number in Victoria), and Aaron Jolly, an Accredited Specialist in Wills & Estates with a focus on dispute resolution and litigation.
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Experience across every stage and court
From the initial letter of demand to a hearing in the Supreme Court, our team handles disputes at every level. If your matter escalates, you won’t be handed off to a different firm.
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Serving Geelong since 1877
Whyte, Just & Moore has been resolving disputes for Geelong businesses and families for nearly 150 years.
What's the difference between mediation and litigation?
Mediation is a private process where an independent person helps both sides reach an agreement. Litigation is a formal court process where a judge or tribunal member decides the outcome. Mediation is usually faster and less expensive, and most disputes are resolved this way before reaching court.
Do I have to go to VCAT before going to court in Victoria?
For many types of disputes, yes. Matters like retail and commercial tenancy disputes and some consumer disputes must go through VCAT before they can proceed to court. A lawyer can tell you which jurisdiction applies to your specific dispute.
What is a letter of demand and do I need one?
A letter of demand is a formal letter setting out what you're owed or what you want the other party to do, and giving them a deadline to respond. It's often the first formal step in a dispute and can resolve the matter without further action.
How much does resolving a business dispute cost in Victoria?
Costs vary depending on the complexity of the dispute and how far it progresses. Straightforward disputes resolved through negotiation or mediation are far less costly than matters that reach court.
How long does a court dispute take to resolve?
Timeframes depend on the court and the complexity of the matter. A VCAT hearing might be resolved in a few months, while a Supreme Court matter can take a year or more. Resolving a dispute early through negotiation or mediation is almost always faster than litigation.
Get in touch with Whyte, Just & Moore
Disputes can feel complicated. The longer it sits unresolved, the more it tends to cost you in money, time, and stress.
Get in touch with the Litigation & Dispute Resolution team at Whyte, Just & Moore. We’ll lay out your options and help you decide what to do next.