Citilawyers provides strategic, results-driven representation across a wide range of civil disputes. We act for individuals, businesses, companies, and organisations, delivering clear, commercially focused legal advice. Our primary focus is on matters before the New South Wales state courts, namely the Local Court, District Court, and Supreme Court of NSW, as well as the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal (NCAT). We are adept at handling all aspects of dispute resolution, including cases involving breach of contract and other complex commercial claims.
We take a practical, outcome-oriented approach to litigation, assisting all our clients in navigating disputes. A key part of this process is determining the appropriate jurisdiction for each matter, as each court or tribunal in New South Wales and Australia has specific monetary and subject-matter limitations. Making the right choice early helps avoid delays, manage legal costs, and ensures your litigation matter proceeds efficiently. This includes expertise in various areas of contract law relevant to your claims.
The Local Court: Hears most civil claims of up to $100,000, including straightforward debt recovery and contractual disputes.
The District Court: Deals with civil claims between $100,001 – $1,250,000 and is suitable for more complex commercial litigation and medium-scale disputes.
The Supreme Court of NSW: Has jurisdiction over claims exceeding $750,000 and handles cases involving urgent injunctions, complex legal issues, and equitable relief, often arising from significant breach of contract or other commercial disputes.
We also represent clients in NCAT, which offers a more accessible and cost-effective forum for certain civil matters. NCAT handles matters including consumer claims, which is generally up to $100,000, strata disputes, housing and property matters (including residential tenancies), residential building disputes, with a jurisdictional limit of $500,000 and guardianship applications. However, NCAT cannot award certain equitable remedies, and its decisions may need to be registered with a court before they can be enforced. To navigate these complexities efficiently, we assist clients in determining whether NCAT is the most appropriate forum, advise on the available remedies, and provide support in enforcing tribunal decisions through the proper court procedures when needed for effective dispute resolution.
We frequently act for creditors and plaintiffs in debt recovery proceedings, particularly in matters involving contractual breaches, with a focus on recovering outstanding amounts quickly and efficiently.
Upon a court order or judgment being obtained, we assist with all aspects of enforcement, including garnishee orders, writs for the levy of property, bankruptcy or winding-up applications, and examination orders. Our litigation team ensures a strategic, efficient and cost-effective approach to debt recovery.
Before commencing litigation, we work closely with our clients to assess the strength of the claim, identify the correct legal forum, and prepare all necessary supporting documents and evidence, such as contracts, invoices, and correspondence. We also provide clear advice on costs, procedural steps, risks, and potential alternatives to litigation, including mediation as a form of dispute resolution. From commencing proceedings through to enforcement, our team is with you every step of the way, offering strategic guidance, clear communication, and strong advocacy to help you achieve the best possible outcome in your disputes.
Contact us now on to discuss your commercial disputes, outstanding debts, or commercial claims you are facing, and let our litigation team guide you.