Introduction

Consumer and commercial issues, such as issues under the Fair Trading Act and Consumer Guarantees Act, can affect cash flow and damage reputations. Whether you are a business owner, franchisee, or individual buyer, you need clear, practical guidance to resolve those issues. Harris Tate’s Dispute Resolution Team can advise you on the relevant legal considerations and provide you with clear, actionable steps that protect you and your brand and achieve the best outcome for you.

Clear-Cut Advice on Consumer & Commercial Law Issues

Misleading sales claims, unfair contract terms, or a major supplier who won’t deliver – consumer and commercial disputes can delay projects and drain cashflow fast.  Harris Tate’s Dispute Resolution Team can advise you on what to do in those situations and provide advice on practical solutions and options you can consider.

Know Your Rights and Obligations

The Fair Trading Act 1986 prohibits deceptive conduct in trade, while the Consumer Guarantees Act 1993 requires that goods and services be fit for purpose, durable, and delivered with reasonable care. Finance deals fall under the Credit Contracts and Consumer Finance Act 2003 (CCCFA), with strict disclosure and responsible-lending duties. We can advise you on how these rules apply to your purchase, franchise, or supply agreement, any claims you may have and/or any changes you may need to make to ensure compliance.

Consumer Disputes

Have you engaged a building contractor who walked off-site? Have you bought a new vehicle that keeps breaking down? When goods or services fail and it makes commercial sense to engage a lawyer, we can assist with resolving these types of issues. If a negotiated resolution is not possible, we can assist you with filing claims in the Disputes Tribunal, District Court, or High Court where appropriate and with commercial considerations in mind.

Commercial Contracts & Unfair Terms

Even “commercial” contracts can breach consumer law if e.g. they target small businesses. We can review documents such as supply agreements, licences and service contracts for hidden fees, unfair indemnities and other issues and advise you on your legal rights and options.

Dispute Resolution Without the Drama

Court is costly.  We use dispute resolution tools such as mediation and negotiation to resolve consumer and supplier disputes quickly. When litigation is unavoidable, we can assist with filing appropriate applications to stop ongoing losses and seek damages or debt recovery in the District or High Court.

Why Choose Harris Tate?

• Plain-English advice: No legal jargon.
• Commercial focus: We balance risk, cost, and brand reputation.
• Pragmatic and responsive advice.
• Knowledgeable and experienced team.

Let’s Sort It

Don’t let a consumer or commercial dispute derail your plans. Contact Harris Tate today for clear, strategic legal guidance that protects your rights, preserves relationships, and keeps your business or commercial contract on track.