resolve legal disputes

an affidavit is a sworn statement of truth. it can be used in many different types of personal or business circumstances. the affidavit must be made voluntarily and under religious oath or affirmation. it must be signed (or 'sworn') in front of a person commissioned to receive oaths (such as a solicitor), who will then also sign the document. an example of when an affidavit is used is when a breeder of dogs makes a statement that the puppies are of a certain pedigree. affidavits are also used in court proceedings, where a witness is not present at trial or during divorce or probate proceedings. ask a lawyer if you need a witness statement or statutory declaration, as an affidavit should not be used in this case. for further information, read affidavits.

alternative dispute resolution (adr) provides a confidential and alternative method of tackling legal disputes which avoids going to court. the most common types of adr are:

• mediation - where an independent trained mediator who facilitates communication between the two parties having the dispute, with the aim of achieving a settlement or resolution
• conciliation - used for employment situations rather than commercial disputes, and is mandatory before a claim can be brought to the employment tribunal 
• arbitration - a process in which the dispute is resolved by the decision of an arbitrator (a nominated third party who is qualified to handle arbitration)
• adjudication - generally reserved for disputes which arise out of construction contracts, where the decision reached is final and binding

for more information, read alternatives to legal action and alternative dispute resolution.

defamation occurs when something is said or written about an individual which is untrue and damages their reputation, or causes financial loss to a business. defamation has two categories - libel and slander. libel is usually a defamatory statement that is written or in a permanent form. slander is concerned with non-permanent forms of expression. if you're concerned with any defamatory statements, you should write a formal letter asking them to stop making or publishing defamatory statements. if you're considering court action or making a claim, you should ask a lawyer. for further information, read defamation.

if you are owed money by an individual or a business, you can apply to a county court to claim the money you’re owed. this is known as making a 'court claim' and taking someone to a ‘small claims court’. a claim can be made online or by post. for more information, read small claims court and issuing a money claim.