Disputes are stressful, costly, and often urgent. The Law Office of Shaffan Mohamed represents individuals and businesses in civil and commercial litigation at all levels of the Maldivian courts, including the Civil Court, the High Court and the Supreme Court. We focus on resolving your dispute efficiently, whether by negotiation, settlement, or trial.
Disputes we handle
- Debt recovery and unpaid invoices
- Breach of contract
- Civil fraud and misrepresentation
- Refund and consumer disputes, including for tourists and visitors
- Commercial and shareholder disputes
- Property and tenancy disputes
- Urgent interim relief, including injunctions
- Enforcement of judgments
- Appeals
Cross-border disputes
Many of our cases involve parties, contracts, or assets in more than one country. Our expertise in conflict of laws (private international law) allows us to advise on key questions: which court has jurisdiction, which country’s law applies, and how a judgment can be enforced. We act for overseas clients in disputes with Maldivian parties, and for Maldivian clients in disputes with foreign parties.
Our approach
We start with an honest assessment of your position, the likely costs, and the realistic outcomes. Many disputes can be resolved with a well-drafted letter and firm negotiation, and we will tell you when that is the better route. When litigation is necessary, we prepare thoroughly, keep you informed at every stage and pursue the result you need.
How a civil claim works
A typical dispute follows these stages:
- Assessment: We review your documents and advise on the strength of your case.
- Pre-action letter: We set out your claim formally and give the other side the opportunity to resolve it.
- Negotiation: Many disputes settle at this stage.
- Proceedings: If necessary, we file your claim and represent you in court.
- Enforcement: If you obtain a judgment, we help you recover what you are owed.
Frequently asked questions
Someone owes me money. What is the first step?
Usually a formal letter of demand, setting out the claim and a deadline for payment. This often resolves the matter without going to court.
I’ve left the Maldives. Can I still bring a claim?
In many cases, yes. We act for overseas clients and can often manage proceedings without you needing to return.
Can I stop the other side from moving assets or taking action while the case is ongoing?
In urgent cases, the court can grant interim orders to protect your position and we have successfully obtained such injunctions. We can advise on whether such an application is appropriate.
How long will my case take?
It depends on the complexity of the dispute and how the other side responds. We will give you a realistic estimate at the outset.
What should I share before or during the first consultation?
Any contracts, invoices, messages and correspondence relating to the dispute, plus a short timeline of events.
Facing a civil or commercial dispute? Reach out to us via email or WhatsApp for an initial consultation.