Commercial & contract disputes
Disagreements over contracts, agreements and business dealings, protecting your position and pursuing the outcome you're entitled to.
Litigation & Dispute Resolution
A dispute is a strategy problem before it's a courtroom one.
When an agreement breaks down or a dispute lands on you, we give you a clear view of your position and the smartest path to resolve it, settling efficiently where we can, and fighting hard where we must.
Book a consultation
Google Reviews 5.0
Most disputes are won or lost long before a hearing
A dispute is rarely just about who’s right. It’s about leverage, timing, cost and risk, and the side that understands those clearly almost always ends up in the stronger position. Go in without a strategy and you can spend more, wait longer and recover less, even with a good case.
Timing matters more than people expect. In NSW you generally have six years to start a contract or negligence claim, and as little as three for a personal injury: miss the limitation period and the claim is gone, however strong it was. The right court, the right approach, and an early honest read of your prospects can change the whole shape of the outcome.
We start by telling you plainly where you stand and what it’s likely to cost in time and money, then we pursue the most efficient route to a result. Often that’s a negotiated or mediated settlement; when it isn’t, we’re ready to represent you firmly in court.
What's included
Strategic help across the disputes that arise
From a letter of demand to a courtroom, we cover the commercial and personal disputes people most often face.
Debt recovery
Recovering money you're owed, from letters of demand through to enforcement, efficiently and commercially.
Property & building disputes
Disputes over property, boundaries, defects and building work, resolved with a clear view of cost and risk.
Estate disputes
Family provision claims and contested estates, whether you're making a claim or defending one.
Mediation & ADR
Resolving disputes through negotiation, mediation and arbitration, usually faster and cheaper than a trial.
Court representation
Firm, well-prepared representation when a matter has to be decided in court.
Why Vanguard
Legal advice that feels
empowering, not overwhelming.
We pair expert legal knowledge with practical strategy to resolve your challenges efficiently, and keep you informed and supported at every step.
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Genuine expertise
Highly qualified across commercial, property, family, criminal, employment and estate law, so your matter is handled by people who do this every day.
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Honest, jargon-free advice
Transparent communication and clear guidance. You'll always know where you stand, what it costs, and what happens next.
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On your terms
Flexible consultations: in person at Bankstown, by phone or by video. Legal help that fits around your life, not the other way around.
In a dispute and not sure of your position?
Book a consultation for a straight assessment of your case, your options and the likely cost. No obligation.
Mervat Sayed
Principal Solicitor & Founder
Mervat brings a grounded, people-first approach to legal practice, combining technical expertise with a genuine commitment to accessible, empowering advice. She has worked across commercial and property, family law, wills and estates, criminal law and litigation, and is known for clear communication and client empathy.
- Bachelor of Laws (LLB)
- Bachelor of Social Science (Peace & Development)
- Admitted to the Supreme Court of NSW
How it works
Getting started is straightforward.
- 01
Book your consultation
Book online in under a minute or call us directly. We'll find a time that suits: in person, by phone or video.
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Get a tailored strategy
We listen, cut the jargon, and give you a clear, personalised plan built around your goals and your situation.
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Move forward with confidence
We act decisively to resolve your matter, keeping you informed and supported at every step.
Litigation & Dispute Resolution FAQs
Litigation & Dispute Resolution questions, answered.
Can't find what you're looking for? Call us on (02) 8766 2575. We're happy to help.
How long do I have to start a court claim in NSW?
The limitation period for a contract or negligence claim in NSW is 6 years from when the cause of action accrues. A personal injury claim runs 3 years from the date the injury is discoverable. Missing the deadline ends the claim, so our Litigation & Dispute Resolution team acts before time limits expire.
Which court hears my civil dispute in NSW?
The court depends on the amount claimed. The Local Court hears claims up to $100,000, the District Court up to $1,250,000, and the Supreme Court hears larger and complex matters. The right court controls the cost and timeframe of the dispute.
What is the difference between mediation, arbitration, and litigation?
Mediation, arbitration, and litigation are the 3 main ways to resolve a dispute. Mediation uses a neutral facilitator, arbitration uses a private decision-maker, and litigation uses a court. Mediation settles most disputes faster and at lower cost than a trial, so we advise which path fits and book a consultation.
Mervat was amazing throughout our entire home loan journey, from contract review through to settlement. Her fast responses ensured we didn't lose the property when timing was critical, and she made the whole settlement process feel simple and stress-free.
5 out of 5 stars. Review by Catherine Shemon on Google.
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I'm beyond grateful for the expertise Mervat showed in handling my legal matter, along with the genuine care provided throughout the entire process. I couldn't be more pleased with the outcome — I couldn't recommend anyone more highly!
5 out of 5 stars. Review by Medina Sabanovic on Google.
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I had a great experience working with Vanguard Lawyers for the settlement of my property. They were professional, responsive, and kept me informed throughout the entire process, making everything smooth and stress-free. Highly recommend their services.
5 out of 5 stars. Review by Manpreet Kaur on Google.
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From our very first conversation, Mervat was professional, knowledgeable, and genuinely cared about my situation. Thanks to her dedication and strategic approach, we achieved a successful outcome. I highly recommend her to anyone looking for a trustworthy and results-driven legal professional.
5 out of 5 stars. Review by Michael Smith Yassine on Google.
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We are extremely grateful for the outstanding service you provided while helping us purchase our unit. From start to finish, your expert guidance kept us informed and confident, while your professionalism and genuine support made what could have been a stressful process remarkably smooth.
5 out of 5 stars. Review by Al Moroni on Google.
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I had the pleasure of working with Mervat recently and couldn't be more impressed. She explained everything clearly, kept me informed throughout the process, and handled my matter with confidence and care. Her attention to detail and calm approach made a stressful situation much easier to deal with.
5 out of 5 stars. Review by Khodar Harbouki on Google.
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Mervat was professional, supportive, and highly knowledgeable. She worked hard to achieve the best outcome for us. I highly recommend her and the team at Vanguard Lawyers.
5 out of 5 stars. Review by Amanda Branthwaite on Google.
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I highly recommend Mervat. She is a passionate, caring and experienced lawyer. Mervat has done some great work for my family and I, and I can't recommend her enough.
5 out of 5 stars. Review by Guljan Boga on Google.
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Mervat was fantastic in all my dealings with her. She is a fantastic and knowledgeable lawyer and I would not hesitate to recommend her to anyone!
5 out of 5 stars. Review by Nour Salama on Google.
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Mervat is an outstanding lawyer. Her knowledge and expertise is an absolute weapon in any legal battle. Thoroughly impressed.
5 out of 5 stars. Review by Dan Mikati on Google.
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Thank you Mervat for assistance with my matter — couldn't have asked for a better lawyer to protect my interests!
5 out of 5 stars. Review by Charlie Pollock on Google.
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Your professionalism, expertise, and prompt communication made a typically stressful process incredibly smooth and straightforward. I especially appreciate Mervat Sayed for patiently explaining the contract terms whenever we had difficulty understanding, and for being available on the phone to clarify any doubts.
5 out of 5 stars. Review by Nirmala Berkmans on Google.
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Professional and easy to deal with. They explained everything clearly and handled my matter so well. I felt confident throughout the process — highly recommend!
5 out of 5 stars. Review by Lilly on Google.
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As a first home buyer, I was pretty nervous about the whole settlement process, but Vanguard Lawyers made it incredibly smooth and stress-free. Mervat explained everything clearly, kept me updated at every stage, and was always available to answer my questions. Highly recommend Vanguard Lawyers to anyone needing help with their property settlement!
5 out of 5 stars. Review by R S on Google.
Book a consultation
Book your Litigation & Dispute Resolution consultation.
Tell us what you need and we'll be in touch quickly with clear, honest advice and the next steps. No obligation.
- Call (02) 8766 2575
- Email info@vanguardlaw.com.au
- Visit Level 1, Suite 1/443 Chapel Rd, Bankstown NSW 2200
- Hours Monday–Friday, 9:00am–5:00pm