Advocate or legal consultant: who can represent you in a UAE court?
In the UAE, only registered advocates may plead before the courts. Knowing the difference saves time, money and surprises later.
4 min readPractice areas
Civil Litigation & Claims
When negotiation fails, a well-built case makes the difference. We prepare and argue civil claims before the Courts of First Instance and Appeal.
We handle
- Compensation claims for material and moral damage
- Breach of contract and unjust enrichment claims
- Insurance and liability claims
- Precautionary attachment and urgent orders
- Appeals against first-instance judgments
Situations we often see
“Someone broke an agreement and I lost money”
We identify what was agreed, what was breached and what loss can be proven, then decide whether a formal notice, a settlement offer or a claim is the right first move.
“I was harmed and want compensation”
Compensation turns on proof of fault, damage and the link between them. We gather the evidence and quantify the claim before filing.
“I received a judgment I disagree with”
Appeal deadlines are short. We review the judgment quickly and tell you honestly whether an appeal has a real basis.
How we approach it
- 01
Assess before filing
We test the claim against the documents and the law, and tell you its strengths and weaknesses before you pay court fees.
- 02
Protect assets early
Where there is a real risk the other side will dispose of assets, we consider precautionary attachment or urgent orders.
- 03
Clear pleadings
Statements of claim and defence memoranda that set out facts, evidence and legal grounds plainly.
- 04
Every stage covered
First instance, expert sessions and appeal, with a written update after every hearing.
What to bring
- The contract or agreement, and any amendments
- Invoices, receipts and bank transfers
- Messages and emails with the other party
- Medical or technical reports, if relevant
- Any notices or court papers already received
- A short timeline of events
Questions clients ask
Is it worth sending a legal notice before filing a case?
Often, yes. A formal notice sets out your claim, can prompt a settlement and is sometimes required by the contract or the law before a claim can proceed. We advise on the right form for your situation.
What is precautionary attachment?
It is a court order that temporarily freezes the other party's assets to protect your claim while the case is decided. Courts grant it only on specific grounds, so we assess whether your situation qualifies.
How long do I have to appeal?
Appeal periods in the UAE are short and run from the date the judgment is issued or served, depending on the case. Contact us as soon as you receive a judgment so no deadline is missed.
Insights
Discuss your matter with an advocate
Send us a short summary of your matter. We confirm there is no conflict of interest, then ask for your documents. We aim to reply within one working day.