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Disputes & Litigation

Our expert team includes 3 Accredited Specialists in Commercial Litigation, making us one of the most recognised Commercial Litigation teams in New South Wales.
Free Case Evaluation

We love solving complex legal problems.

Shareholder Disputes & Director Disputes

We have more Accredited Specialists in Commercial Litigation than 99% of all Law Firms in NSW. If you have a commercial legal problem, we can help you find a solution.

Business & Contract Disputes

We have more Accredited Specialists in Commercial Litigation than 99% of all Law Firms in NSW. If you have a commercial legal problem, we can help you find a solution.

Insolvency Related Claims

We have extensive experience representing Insolvency Practitioners, former Company Directors and Creditors in relation to insolvency related claims and investigations. 
Professional Negligence

If you have suffered loss or damage as a result of poor professional advice or mismanagement of your affairs, you may be entitled to compensation.
Intellectual Property Infringement

If your Intellection Property Rights have been infringed you may be entitled to urgent injunctive relief, compensation for loss or damage, or an account of profits. 

Property & Lease Disputes

When property or lease disputes arise prompt action is essential for protecting the value of your property investment or maintaining continuity of business.  

Defamation

If your reputation has been damaged as a result of a false and defamatory statement or publication someone has made about you, you may be entitled to compensation and/or injunctive relief. 

Commercial Crime & Corruption

Our Phil Blaxell and Tony Peterson have extensive experience in regulatory and ICAC investigations and associated criminal proceedings.  

Debt Collection

We have extensive experience with the recovery of debts and enforcement of securities and offer a fixed fee Best First Step Debt Collection service.

It has been a great pleasure working with you as an ultimate professional on this matter.

“There are very few that can measure up to your professionalism. I have worked with many ….  you “stand above the rest” in your profession.”

Geoff Page
Chartered & Forensic Accountant, Leonard & Page Pty Limited

I have no hesitation in recommending Roberts Crosbie Mortensen.

“Sam Roberts is sharp and confident and has been adept at understanding the issues pertinent to my matter in relation to Equity Law and Contract Law.  His talent expedited the outcome of my matter.  He is energetic, proactive, professional, ethical, discrete and motivated.  I continue to appreciate having him in my corner.”

David Paine

We could not fault our experience with Roberts Crosbie Mortensen Lawyers and would recommend them without hesitation.

“We are absolutely thrilled with the result Roberts Crosbie Mortensen Lawyers achieved for our company! After a long battle over a very large sum of money, Ned achieved the best possible outcome for us. He was incredibly professional, while at the same time extremely patient and easy to talk to.”

Angela Whitney-Offen

I have no hesitation in routinely recommending them to friends and associates.

“We use Sam and his team on a routine basis and have always found them to be both friendly and professional. They have a wide range of knowledge and expertise and get the job done with a minimum of fuss.”

Ross Holding

Whenever we need legal advice we use Roberts Crosbie Mortensen Lawyers.

“We have used them in the past for several different legal matters, and they have always been so professional with their advice and demeanor. We will continue to use them into the future.”

Marie Killick

I have used Roberts Crosbie Mortensen Lawyers on several occasions and have found the service to be excellent.

Ben Bader

Excellent experience. I would highly recommend.

“Very professional handing of a complex and technical multi-layered legal matter, with a favourable outcome.”

Jim L

They were fast, efficient and provided timely and accurate legal advice.

“Haydon & Felicity have been outstanding in assisting me with a recent matter. I would absolutely recommend them to anyone looking for professional, legal advice.”

Tarryn Mathie

All I needed to do was sleep soundly at night and focus on my own business.

“Having a commercial dispute is stressful and never an ideal situation. But knowing you are in safe pair of hands, can alleviate the worry.

After a false start with a different firm, I was recommended Roberts Crosbie Mortensen’s Commercial Law team. Right from the very first phone call, I knew that I had the right team on my side. Not only were they timely, professional, no-nonsense, they were quick to nip things in the bud that could have resulted in very costly meandering by the other party!

In addition, I felt appropriately informed every step of the way. I knew I could leave Roberts Crosbie Mortensen Lawyers to do what they do best (resolve the dispute). Roberts Crosbie Mortensen Lawyers are highly recommended!”

Jewlz Ellem

Will always recommend!

“Haydon provided an impeccable quality service with excellent understanding and assistance, during a troubling time.”

Shane Steffen

I couldn’t recommend Roberts Crosbie Mortensen Lawyers enough!

“They were professional, efficient and thorough and a small investment on our part led to outstanding results from the team at Roberts Crosbie Mortensen. Many thanks!!!”

Geoff Ingram

Excellent service, excellent staff.

“Lots of free time and solid advice BEFORE professional charges applied. Saved me thousands by NOT HAVING to use them … not to mention Tony’s sage advice in helping me to get the defendants to surrender and pay up out of court. Couldn’t be happier.”

The Dolphin

I would highly recommend Tony to anyone who needs a help resolving a complicated dispute.

“Tony assisted us with a complicated dispute arising from the termination of an agreement with a referral source. Tony provided clear and strategic advice and was able to negotiate an outcome without the need for Court proceedings. Tony was easy to deal with and was focused on the commercial objectives for our business.”

Russell
Specialist Wealth Group

A brilliant result from a professional Legal Firm.

“We had a debt needed recovered and after trying 2 law firms with no success, we found Roberts Crosbie Mortensen. We had our debt paid in full after the first action they took for us. The communication was brilliant and all the staff friendly and helpful. “

Rod Burgess

You managed it without the matter going to Court.

“Justice prevailed and the outcome was enormous for me. You managed it without the matter going to Court, which saved a lot of time and unnecessary stress for me. Your commercial knowledge and the professionalism shown was fantastic and the way you dealt with the other side achieved the result I was looking for.”

Sam is pleasant, extremely thorough, professional and very knowledgeable.

Sam is personable whilst remaining extremely professional.

“He has an ability to achieve a great result for his clients without becoming confrontational with the transactional parties. He focuses clearly on what is needed to finalise the matter in an effective and efficient manner.”

Lindsey Karathanassis
Linkara Capital

Thank you SO MUCH for putting our case forward in such a brilliant way.

“It is a great result and what we believed all along. We truly appreciate your insight and work.”

Helen B

Very efficient, very responsive.

“Recent legal matter needed to be attended to. Haydon was very efficient and clearly explained the steps in the matter.”

Chris T

Without you it would have been impossible to confront these multi-national corporate giants.

Toby Player
Bodyboard King

I have used Roberts Crosbie Mortensen on a number of different matters.

“Over the past several years I have used Roberts Crosbie Mortensen on a number of different matters all of which have been awarded in my favour and I believe this is due to their diligence and their desire to represent their client to the best of their ability.”

Elizabeth Howard

I would not hesitate to recommend Roberts Crosbie Mortensen Lawyers.

“They are professional, provide excellent attention to detail and strive to gain the best results for their clients.”

Mark Humphries
Sunbow Roofing

Excellent experience. I would highly recommend.

“Very professional handing of a complex and technical multi-layered legal matter, with a favorable outcome.”

Jim Limberis
Netseek Pty Limited

Having a commercial dispute is stressful and never an ideal situation. But knowing you are in safe pair of hands, can alleviate the worry.

“After a false start with a different firm, I was recommended Roberts Crosbie Mortensen’s Commercial Law team. Right from the very first phone call, I knew that I had the right team on my side. Not only were they timely, professional, no-nonsense, they were quick to nip things in the bud that could have resulted in very costly meandering by the other party!

In addition, I felt appropriately informed every step of the way. I knew I could leave Roberts Legal to do what they do best (resolve the dispute). All I needed to do was sleep soundly at night and focus on my own business.

Roberts Crosbie Mortensen are highly recommended!”

Julie-Anne E

The Roberts Crosbie Mortensen team have assisted us with a myriad of matters.

“Having worked with Amanda, we are pleased with her service and confident in her advising.”

Sarah B

I have found Sam Roberts to be a competent and diligent legal practitioner.

“Sam and I have worked together on commercial disputes including those relating to the enforcement of contracts, breaches of contract, misleading and deceptive conduct, breaches of confidentiality and breaches of intellectual property rights. I have found Sam Roberts to be a competent and diligent legal practitioner with a tenacious approach that serves his clients well in legal disputation.”

Peter E Cullen
Barrister-at-Law, Sydney

Sam was at all times very efficient and most thorough throughout his handling of my case.

Being young, most diligent and trustworthy I would recommend him to conduct any legal work to the highest order.

Paul Joy
Paul Joy Financial Planning Pty Limited

Disputes & Litigation Services

Our Commercial Litigation Lawyers have extensive experience representing clients in a wide variety of disputes, claims, investigations and enforcement actions and take great pride in our reputation as a force to be reckoned with.

We understand that when commercial disputes arise or litigation has been commenced time is usually of the essence and that accurate and timely advice is required to make informed commercial decisions.

If you need answers fast, contact us today for a Free Case Evaluation.

How We Help

We understand that litigation can be costly, time consuming and stressful, and that most clients want to focus their attention on operating and growing their businesses.

We focus on achieving successful commercial outcomes for our clients by investing time to fully assess the strengths and weaknesses of your legal position to properly advise and assist you to identify real and favourable outcomes.

We then develop strategies for achieving a resolution in the most efficient way and take decisive initial action aimed at delivering a killer blow and either an immediate result or early settlement negotiations so that Court proceedings can be avoided, wherever possible.

Free Case Evaluation

Get answers fast and make commercial decisions with confidence.

We regularly advise clients and act in relation to Disputes & Litigation including:
  • Business & Commercial Disputes
  • Breach of Contract Claims
  • Franchise Disputes
  • Director & Shareholder Disputes
  • Misleading & Deceptive Conduct Claims
  • Unconscionable Conduct Claims
  • Insolvent Trading Claims
  • Unfair Preference Claims
  • Other Insolvency Related Claims
  • Professional Negligence Claims
  • Intellectual Property Infringement
  • Breach of Confidentiality Claims
  • Property & Lease Disputes
  • Defamation Claims
  • White Collar Crime
  • Regulatory Investigations & Prosecutions
  • Debt Collection
  • Enforcement of Judgment Debts

Specialist Accreditation

Our Accredited Specialists include Sam Roberts (sub-specialty in Building & Construction Litigation), Tony Peterson (sub-specialty in Corporate Litigation) and Jack Lindgren whose practice is focused on general Commercial Litigation and Professional Negligence.

In the legal profession, Accredited Specialists are practising Solicitors who have demonstrated proficiency in a particular area of law, which is recognised and conferred by fellow Solicitors. Specialist Accreditation is a nationally recognised mark of distinction run by state based Solicitor Associations. In New South Wales the Specialist Accreditation Scheme has been operated by the Law Society of NSW since 1992.

To gain Specialist Accreditation a Solicitor must pass rigorous assessments in communication, problem solving, client relations and, of course, the law.

Businesses that proactively
address legal issues are more resilient, better prepared
and more profitable.

Understand your Top 5 Legal Priorities

Complete our 10-Minute Questionnaire and receive a free 40-Minute consultation with an experienced Commercial Lawyer to review your Top 5 Legal Priorities.

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We have more Accredited Specialists in Commercial Litigation than 99% of law firms in NSW.
Our Specialists

Our Disputes & Litigation Team

Sam Roberts

Managing Director
Accredited Specialist (Commercial Litigation)
Newcastle

Sam is an Accredited Specialist in Commercial Litigation with over 20 years’ experience helping businesses solve complex legal problems.

Amanda Crosbie

Solicitor Director
Accredited Specialist (Business Law)
Newcastle

Amanda’s practice focuses on providing timely corporate and commercial services to established and growing SMEs.

Ned Mortensen

Principal Solicitor
Accredited Adjudicator (Security of Payment)
Newcastle

Ned’s considerable experience in the construction industry before coming to the law makes him a formidable opponent for any building dispute.

Tony Peterson

Principal Solicitor
Accredited Specialist (Commercial Litigation)
Newcastle

Tony has a decade of experience in national and international law firms representing high net wealth individuals and businesses in large and complex commercial disputes.

Phil Blaxell

Special Counsel
Sydney

Phil is an experienced Litigation Lawyer with a track record for winning cases and advocating strongly for his clients.

Felicity Donald

Special Counsel
Newcastle

Felicity is an exceptional advocate with over 17 years’ experience in Litigation & Dispute Resolution with a focus on commercial, construction, professional negligence and intellectual property disputes.

Jack Lindgren

Senior Associate Solicitor
Accredited Specialist (Commercial Litigation)
Newcastle

Jack is a specialist Commercial Litigation Lawyer adept at resolving complex commercial disputes, with a focus on Professional Negligence, Building & Construction, Employment and Insolvency related claims.

Haydon Potter

Senior Associate Solicitor
Newcastle

Haydon specialises in employment law and heads our Workplace Team. He has a talent for assisting employers and employees to navigate complex industrial relations laws and disputes.

Andrei Jerdetski

Solicitor
Sydney

Andrei is a dual qualified Building & Construction Lawyer whose practice focuses on the resolution of complex commercial and residential building disputes.

Isabella Hudson

Solicitor
Newcastle

Isabella is a determined and energetic Commercial Litigation Lawyer who aspires to provide every client with a positive legal experience.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Free Case Evaluation?

A Free Case Evaluation is a 15-minute free phone call with an experienced Solicitor that is best matched to your type of enquiry. In this call it will be identified how we can help you and next steps required to progress your matter. This is an obligation free, complimentary phone call.

How do I book a Free Case Evaluation?

You can call us on 1300 553 343 or complete a Free Case Evaluation request form.

What happens after the Free Case Evaluation?

At the end of the Free Case Evaluation your Solicitor will advise in writing what is required in order for us to start work on your matter. This will generally include signing a Legal Services Agreement, depositing money into our Trust Account, providing documentation for review by the Solicitor, or perhaps scheduling a face to face or zoom appointment.

We will strive to ensure that right from the start and throughout the duration of your matter you will be kept aware of:

  • The actions we will take on your behalf,
  • The steps you need to take,
  • Any information you need to supply to us,
  • The timing involved and when delays may occur, and
  • A clear indication of the costs.
What is a Trust Account?

A Trust Account is a bank account in which we hold money on your behalf, usually as a deposit for the payment of future Invoices.  We are not permitted to use this money unless certain conditions are met.  Most law firms use a Trust Account to assist to manage the payment of legal costs.

When will I be asked to deposit money into your Trust Account?
  1. At the beginning of your matter,
  2. At intervals throughout your matter once the amount you have deposited into our Trust Account has already been used to pay Invoices and is not enough to cover the next stage of work, and
  3. For specific purposes, such as for payment to your former partner under Court orders or an agreement, or expenses we will need to pay on your behalf.
Why do you request that money be deposited into your Trust Account? 

We request that you deposit money into our Trust Account so that we can be certain that we will be paid for the work you have instructed us to do and/or so that we are not out-of-pocket for the expenses we pay to others on your behalf (e.g. Search fees, valuation fees, stamp duty, barristers’ fees).

What happens to the money in Trust when my matter is complete?

Money held in our Trust Account is held on your behalf. Subject to any lien we hold over the money to secure payment of our fees, money held in our Trust Account will be paid at your direction at any time. Upon completion of your matter and payment of our fees, money held in our Trust Account will, therefore, be paid to you or as you direct.

Do I need to pay money in advance?

In most cases, yes. We typically require that you have both signed the Legal Services Agreement with us and deposited the requested funds into our Trust Account before commencing work on your behalf.

The amount of money required to be paid in advance will be based on our estimate of costs work initially to be undertaken. This will be discussed with your Solicitor during your free case evaluation and confirmed in an Engagement Letter.

Who will be my lawyer?

A lot of factors are considered when pairing your enquiry with one of our Solicitors, however put simply, the Solicitor allocated to your matter will be one with the appropriate knowledge and skill to best assist you.

When do I pay into the Office Account and when do I pay into the Trust Account?

You will only need to pay money into the Office Account if you have an Invoice due where the amount is greater than the funds we have held for you in Trust.

How will my lawyer communicate with me?

All communication with our lawyers will be over the phone and email. Important correspondence will be contained in letters as PDF attachments to emails. This includes invoices. It is essential that you take the time to read all correspondence received by your lawyer and contact your legal team should you have any questions, require clarification, or need further information in order to understand.