The underlying dispute arose over the recovery of paid fees for legal services set out in the letter of engagement dated 8 August 2023 signed between the parties.

On 14 March 2024, the Claimant filed a claim in the DIFC Courts’ Small Claims Tribunal seeking: a refund of the amount AED 70,500 for legal fees paid to the Defendant; payment of Interest to the amount of 9% per annum, pursuant to Practice Direction 4 of 2017; costs; and any other applicable relief that the Court may deem appropriate.

On 21 March 2024, the Defendant filed an acknowledgment of service setting out his intention to defend the whole claim.

At a Consultation before SCT Judge Maitha Al Shehhi both of the parties were in attendance, but failed to reach a settlement.

The Claimant sought to initiate legal proceedings in the UK. They underwent prior review of the details of the Claimant’s UK Case by a barrister, obtaining a comprehensive legal opinion dated 26 October 2022 and subsequently issued a pre-action protocol letter.