Alternative Dispute Resolution

HMRC’s Litigation and Settlement Strategy encourages the use of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR), including mediation and facilitated discussions, as a way of resolving tax disputes more efficiently and constructively than traditional litigation.

ADR can be particularly helpful where there are misunderstandings about the facts, disagreements over how tax law applies to a particular set of circumstances, or a breakdown in communication during an enquiry or review.

It provides an opportunity for the parties to explore solutions in a structured but flexible forum, often avoiding the time and cost of a full Tribunal hearing.

How Hammad Can Assist

Hammad can assist in assessing whether your dispute is suitable for ADR, helping you understand the potential benefits, risks, and likely outcomes in the context of your broader commercial and tax position.

• Assessing whether ADR is suitable for your tax dispute
• Preparing a clear summary of the issues, facts, and legal position
• Narrowing the points of disagreement before discussions with HMRC
• Representing clients during ADR meetings with HMRC and the mediator
• Evaluating settlement proposals and protecting legal and commercial interests

Before an ADR meeting takes place, Hammad works with clients to prepare a clear, focused summary of the issues in dispute, the relevant facts, and the key points of law. This preparation helps ensure that discussions with HMRC are meaningful and focused on the matters that genuinely need to be resolved.

He also assists in identifying areas where agreement may already exist and clarifying the scope of what remains in dispute. This can significantly improve the prospects of reaching a settlement at ADR.

During the ADR process itself, Hammad can represent you in meetings with HMRC and the mediator, presenting your position clearly, responding to HMRC’s arguments, and helping you evaluate any proposals put forward.

Where ADR does not fully resolve the dispute, the process can still help refine the remaining issues and improve the overall clarity of the case, placing you in a stronger position if the matter proceeds to formal appeal or litigation.

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