I'm already operating as a sole trader and I can tell that I'm in the beginning of a dispute with one of my suppliers. Do you have any tips for managing disputes as a small business owner?
Lawyer Answers (1): Answers from lawyers are general preliminary responses. They are not formal legal advice and cannot taken account of all your circumstances. They do not create a lawyer–client relationship.
Answer by LegalEagle™ staff, Melbourne 3000 VIC
- Disputes inevitably happen from time to time and can be difficult to resolve. It really depends on:
- what the dispute is about;
- whether either party is willing to cooperate to resolve the situation; and
- if the situation has become hostile.
- As you are in the early stages now you should focus on documenting as many details as you can in relation to the history of the dispute. This includes such things as:
- dates;
- times;
- receipts;
- details of products and services;
- your rights and obligations; and
- the rights and obligations of the other party.
- You should also ensure that you keep all documentation relating to the dispute organised and in the one place as you may need to refer to these documents later.
- Having a clear idea in mind of how you would like the dispute to be resolved can also assist you in having a strong direction.
- Obtaining legal advice in relation to your rights, obligations and options can assist you in being clear with the other party about how you can work together to resolve the dispute.
- Most importantly bear in mind that there are always two parties to a dispute and you will have to work together to find a solution. Always try to stay calm and demonstrate respect.