High Court Litigation Insight: £1.5 Million Quantum Meruit Claim Settled Ahead of Trial
In a high-profile High Court dispute that underscores the dangers of informal business arrangements, leading litigation firm Adam Benedict successfully represented an individual seeking £1.5 million in compensation after playing a key role in building a company—without any formal written agreement.
The claim was led by Ian Coupland, Head of Litigation at Adam Benedict, who acted for a client that had significantly enhanced the value and operations of a business on the understanding that he would be rewarded with shares. The client worked closely with the company’s leadership team, dedicating substantial time and expertise to drive its growth and success.
However, when the relationship between the parties broke down, the company refused to pay or transfer any shares, arguing that there was no legally binding contract in place. This triggered a claim based on the legal principle of quantum meruit, which allows a party to seek fair compensation for services rendered where no formal contract exists.
Ian Coupland and the team at Adam Benedict built a strong High Court case, gathering compelling evidence that demonstrated the value of the client’s contribution and the reasonable expectation of payment. Faced with the prospect of going to trial, the opposing party ultimately agreed to settle the matter shortly before trial on confidential terms.
The claim—valued at £1.5 million—highlights both the high-value nature of the disputes handled by Adam Benedict and the firm’s expertise in commercial litigation, particularly where contractual uncertainty and implied agreements are involved.
This case serves as a vital reminder: always put commercial agreements in writing. If you’re involved in a complex dispute—especially one involving unwritten promises or informal business arrangements—contact us today. Led by Ian Coupland, the firm is a trusted name in High Court litigation, delivering strategic results in even the most challenging cases.
If you are a similar dispute, don’t hesitate and act today by getting in touch and speaking with our Head of Litigation for consultation and professional representation.