It is inevitable that disputes arise in our real estate and business relationships. Even with the best of intentions, disagreements will sometimes occur over the course of real estate and business activities. How the parties conduct themselves, the choices they make and how well the communications are documented in the early stages of the dispute will determine whether the dispute will resolve favorably. If you find yourself in a difficult dispute, here are five tips to improve your chances for the best outcome:
- Document the dispute. All communications should be in writing because many disputes turn into expensive litigation when the parties disagree over what was said. When the communications are in writing, it is more difficult for a party to contest what was said.
- The cliché “a picture is worth a thousand words” could not ring truer in a legal dispute. If the appearance of property is important, and may need to be proved later on, the property should be photographed. For example, in a nuisance case it will be important to show the degree of the nuisance. Photographs of the nuisance will be far more persuasive than relying on a person’s memory and their description of the event.
- Keep a detailed diary of the events while they are still fresh in your mind. Note the dates of the events, who was present to witness them and what happened.
- Consult with an attorney experienced in type of dispute you are having. It is important to know your legal rights and obligations before you act to avoid making costly mistakes.
- Organize all of your documents and photographs in chronological order with your diary to give to your attorney. This will allow your attorney to understand and evaluate your dispute with greater efficiency and provide better advice.