How to prepare a clear timeline, preserve documents, and explain the outcome you are seeking before discussing a dispute.
Build a simple timeline
Write the key events in date order. Include agreements, payments, notices, meetings, missed deadlines, and any formal action already taken.
Preserve the original evidence
Keep contracts, receipts, messages, emails, photographs, notices, and electronic records in their original form. Avoid editing or annotating the only copy.
Identify the people involved
List the parties, witnesses, decision-makers, and anyone who communicated important information about the dispute.
Define the practical objective
Consider whether you want payment, performance, an injunction, possession, a negotiated settlement, or another outcome. The legal strategy should support the real objective.
