This page was last updated on April 3, 2025.
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Taking legal action against a company might seem overwhelming, especially if you are uncertain where to begin. Whether you are dealing with unfair dismissal, discrimination at work, or a business that failed to deliver on its promises, civil litigation gives you a legal route to hold companies accountable.
Most people do not realise they have the right to bring a claim, and even fewer know how the process works. While some disputes make headlines, most cases are resolved quietly through negotiation or settlement. However, when that is not possible, taking a company to court may be the only way to get a fair outcome.
This guide, put together by our litigation solicitors in London, explains your options. From the types of claims you can bring to the tactics companies often use to avoid responsibility, we will walk you through what to expect and how the right legal support can help you move forward with confidence.
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Key Takeaways
- You have the legal right to sue a company in the UK if you have been wronged, whether as an employee, consumer, or third party.
- Before taking a claim to court, it is important to try informal steps like speaking to your employer or using mediation.
- An experienced legal professional can review your situation, help collect supporting documents, speak on your behalf during discussions, and provide guidance if your case goes to court.
- In some situations, alternative legal routes like statutory demands or group litigation may be more appropriate.
- Settling out of court can save time and money, but it depends on the strength of your case and what outcome you want.
- Always speak to a solicitor before taking legal action to ensure your case is handled properly and your rights are protected.
Employee Claims
If you are thinking about suing a company in the UK, there are a few common situations that might apply. For example, you might not have been paid what you are owed, or you could have been dismissed unfairly.
Before starting legal action, it is important to try to resolve the matter through other routes. This could include speaking with your manager, contacting HR, or exploring mediation. If those steps do not lead to a solution, you may need to take the matter further through the civil litigation process.
Workplace Injury Lawsuits
Injuries at work are a common reason why employees take legal action against their employers. This could be something minor, like slipping on a wet floor, or a more serious accident that results in long-term health issues.
If you are injured or become ill because of your job, it is important to get medical attention straight away and report the incident to your manager or supervisor. You should also collect any materials that reinforce your case, such as images of the location, health assessments, and testimonies from bystanders.
To bring a successful claim, you will need to show that your injury or illness was directly caused by your working conditions or the employer’s negligence.
Discrimination in the Workplace
Different types of discrimination can occur at work. For example, discrimination could be based on race, gender, sexual orientation, age, or disability status.
If you notice that you have been discriminated against at work, you can take a claim to an employment tribunal.
This is a government-run body that resolves workplace disputes. The tribunal considers both sides of the story and decides based on the evidence presented.
Wage Disputes
Another common reason to sue your employer is wage disputes. These could involve not being paid enough money, receiving the wrong amount in a paycheck, or not being paid on time (or at all).
If you’re having trouble getting paid by an employer and think they might be trying to take advantage of you, it’s crucial to take action as soon as possible. The longer you wait, the more difficult it will be to get what you’re owed.
Unfair Dismissal Cases UK
If you have been working for a company and suddenly find yourself without a job, it’s possible that you were fired unfairly.
This is known as being dismissed “without just cause”.
If you believe your employer has dismissed you without a valid reason, this might be an example of unfair dismissal. In these cases, you can take legal action against the company.
Sexual Harassment Claims
Sexual harassment is another common reason for people to sue their employers. This could be anything from unwanted touching to sexual comments or jokes.
If you’re being sexually harassed at work, it’s essential to take action as soon as possible. You can speak to your supervisor, HR department, or a lawyer about the situation. They can take legal action at an employment tribunal if this does not work.
Non-Employee Lawsuits
Not all legal claims against companies are made by employees. In some cases, individuals who have been mistreated by a business can take legal action as non-employees. This might include someone injured by a faulty product or a person who was misled or defrauded.
To pursue a case as a non-employee, you must show that the company caused you harm and that you experienced a measurable loss. This process can become more challenging if the business operates from a different country
Group Litigation
Class action lawsuits are lawsuits in which a group of people band together to sue a company. This type of lawsuit is often used when the company has done something wrong that affects a large number of people.
For instance, if a company released a product that caused harm to multiple individuals, those affected could pursue group litigation. This legal approach allows everyone impacted to combine their claims and take collective action against the company in a single case.
This is often a more successful way to sue a company, as it will have a more challenging time defending itself against multiple claims.
Premises Liability Lawsuits
Premises liability is a legal concept that refers to situations where someone’s property is responsible for an accident.
For example, if you fall on a broken stair in a business establishment, you might be able to sue them for damages under the premises liability law.
To win a case like this, you will need to prove that the property owner was aware of the unsafe condition and did not do anything to fix it. You will also need to show that you were injured due to the hazardous condition.
Consumer Discrimination Cases
Individual consumer discrimination claims are frequently the result of a retailer’s or service provider’s actions. Seeking consumer discrimination legal help is vital.
This could be anything from :
- Being refused service because of your race, colour, national origin, religion, sex (including pregnancy), disability, or age.
- Receiving lower quality service than other customers.
What Tactics Can Companies Use to Intimidate People?
When it comes to suing a company, many people are intimidated by the thought of going up against a large corporation.
Companies sometimes use intimidation tactics to pressure individuals into dropping their claims. These tactics are designed to create fear, uncertainty, or doubt, and can include the following:
Threatening to Countersue
One common tactic that companies use is threatening to countersue the individual if they decide to take legal action. This is often done to scare the person into dropping their case.
Using a Lawyer to Intimidate You
A common tactic is for the company to use a lawyer to try and intimidate you into dropping your case. This often is a very effective strategy and threat, as many people in the general public will be scared of going up against a lawyer.
Offering a Settlement
Many companies will try and offer a settlement to the person suing them. This is often an attempt to get the person to drop their case without going to court.
Why is Hiring the Right Legal Assistance so Important?
Suing a company is rarely straightforward. You need someone who understands business disputes, how to present a strong case, and can stand up to the tactics companies often use to avoid responsibility.
A qualified solicitor will help you compile evidence, organise your claim, and manage negotiations. They can also give you an honest view of your chances of success, which could save you time, money, and stress.
Trying to go it alone can put you at a serious disadvantage. The right legal support gives you the best chance of obtaining the result you deserve.
Filing a Claim in Civil Court – A Step-by-Step Guide
Submitting a claim through the civil courts might appear complicated, but having a clear grasp of the procedure beforehand can make you feel more confident and better equipped to handle it.
Determine Who is Responsible for Your Claim
In many cases, the company you are suing will be liable for the accident or injury you suffered. However, there may be other parties who are also responsible.
Determine How Much Compensation You would Get If You Pursue Legal Action.
This can be difficult to do, as it’s hard to value something like an injury. However, it’s essential to have a rough idea of how much money you think you should receive.
Instruct The Attorney Who will Represent You in Filing The Claim
Once you have hired a lawyer, they will file the claim on your behalf. This will start the legal process and begin negotiations with the company you are suing.
Wait for a Response from The Company.
The company will likely respond to your claim by either denying liability or offering a settlement. Therefore, it’s important to have a lawyer who can help you negotiate with the company and make sure you receive the best possible outcome.
Sue The Company
If negotiations break down, your lawyer will be able to take the company to court and fight for you. This can be a difficult and complicated process, but with the help of a good lawyer, you will have a chance of succeeding.
Other Important Avenues that can be Utilised
In some cases, court action is not the only route available. Depending on your situation, there may be alternative legal tools or procedures that can help you resolve the dispute more efficiently or apply pressure on the company to act.
Issuing a Statutory Demand
If the amount of the debt owing to you by a company is not in dispute, or you are sure there is no defence to the claim, then you can start a statutory demand process under section 459E of the corporation Acts 2001, which enables you as a creditor to demand payment of the debt failing which you can issue a petition to wind up the company.
Winding Up a Company UK
Liquidating a company is also called winding up a company. During the liquidation process, the company’s assets will be used to pay off its debts and any leftover money will go to its shareholders.
Security for Costs in Litigation
If a company is suing you, and if its finances are not good or it is registered in a foreign jurisdiction, you may be advised to ask for security for costs so that in the event of the company losing the action, there will be funds to pay your legal costs.
Is Settling Out of Court Worth It?
If you are considering a claim against a company, it’s important to consider whether or not settling out of court is worth it.
A primary reason people choose to settle out of court is that they don’t want to go through a lengthy legal process.
If you want to file a claim against a company, it’s important to consider how much money you need to cover your expenses. This will help you consider whether or not settling out of court is worth it.
What Happens When a Claim Goes to Court?
If your case cannot be settled through negotiation or settlement, it may be decided in court. This involves a formal hearing where both sides present their arguments, evidence, and any relevant documents. Witnesses may also be summoned to provide statements as part of the proceedings.
The judge will examine all submitted materials, hear arguments from each party, and then deliver a verdict. The judgment sets out who is legally in the right and what, if any, compensation or remedy should be awarded.
If the court decides in your favour, the business could be instructed to compensate you with a financial award. These could include compensation for financial losses, medical bills, emotional distress, or any other harm you have suffered. In some cases, the judge may also issue an injunction, which forces the company to stop a particular action or carry out a specific obligation.
It is important to keep in mind that legal proceedings can be lengthy and must follow precise procedural guidelines. Having a legal expert on your side helps ensure your case is put forward accurately and in accordance with the court’s requirements.
Final Thoughts
Suing a company is a serious step, and there are several factors to weigh before moving forward. Start by asking yourself whether the case is strong enough to pursue. If the matter can be settled through mediation or arbitration, those routes may save you time, stress, and costs.
If you decide to proceed with legal action, make sure you have a clear understanding of the facts and solid evidence to support your claim. Taking advice early on from a solicitor can help you avoid missteps and ensure the process is handled properly from the beginning.
Our commercial litigation team is here to provide clear, practical guidance at every stage of your case.
Our Civil Litigation Expertise
Our legal practice is renowned for its expertise in civil litigation, with a focus on resolving commercial conflicts, navigating corporate lawsuits, addressing landlord and tenancy disputes, and offering guidance on employment legislation. Additionally, our firm is adept at handling intricate cases in the realms of immigration, domestic relations, and the protection of intellectual property.
Yes, you can apply even if the relationship has broken down, as long as the breakdown was due to domestic abuse. You must show evidence that the relationship was genuine and that abuse occurred during the time you were together.
Useful evidence can include police reports, medical records, court documents, letters from support services, and messages or emails that show abusive behaviour. The stronger and more varied your evidence, the better.
No. If you’re facing financial hardship, you may be eligible for a fee waiver. This means you can apply without having to pay the application fee.
Most decisions are made within 6 months, but times can vary depending on the complexity of the case and whether additional information is requested.
If you’ve been granted temporary permission under the Migrant Victims of Domestic Abuse Concession, you can legally stay in the UK, work, and access public funds while your application is being processed.
At Gulbenkian Andonian, we pride ourselves on “Excellence, Experience and Efficiency”. With over 35 years of experience on your side, our team of London based lawyers and solicitors have a wealth of experience advising individuals, families and businesses of all sizes to find clarity on UK law. Call us on +44 (0) 207 269 9590 or fill out the form below. We usually reply within a few hours. Neither Gulbenkian Andonian Solicitors ltd, nor their employees, agents, consultants or assignees, accept any liability based on the contents of written articles which are meant for guidance only and not as legal advice. We advise all readers to take professional advice before acting. If you would like to consult with a professional lawyer or solicitor to discuss your case, please do not hesitate to contact us directly. This site is protected by Wordfence and operates under a robust SSL to ensure your security, safety and privacy. Our site uses reCAPTCHA and is protected by the Google privacy policy and terms of service. Ask our Expert Legal Team
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Dr Bernard Andonian is the Co-Founder of Gulbenkian Andonian Solicitors and a leading authority in UK immigration, human rights, family and civil litigation law. With over 40 years of experience, he brings a wealth of legal knowledge and courtroom expertise. A former Judge and a recipient of a PhD in Law from the University of West London, Dr Andonian has served on the Law Society’s Immigration Law Panel, where he played a key role in shaping national legal standards. His name is featured in the Legal 500 Hall of Fame, recognising his consistent excellence and influence in the field. Known for his practical approach and deep understanding of immigration law, he is frequently consulted for commentary on policy changes and legal reform.