Business Details
18 Years
experience
Your Trusted Legal Partner in Coventry
Established in 2008, Smith & Wells is a niche law firm specialising in litigation and dispute resolution. Our team of legal professionals brings over 45 years of combined experience, offering tailored advice to businesses and individuals. We prioritise practical, cost-effective solutions while maintaining a personal approach to client relationships. Regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority, we uphold the highest standards of professionalism and ethical practice. Our expertise spans commercial disputes, insolvency, property litigation, and alternative dispute resolution, including mediation and arbitration. With a track record of successful outcomes in complex cases, we combine technical excellence with accessible service.Our principal, Melonie Smith, has over two decades of experience in commercial litigation, supported by consultant solicitor Damian Cadman-Jones and senior paralegal Manisha Bhikhi. We serve clients across Coventry and surrounding areas, including Warwickshire, delivering dedicated representation in both court proceedings and negotiated settlements. Our commitment to transparency and client education ensures informed decision-making throughout every case. As a boutique firm, we maintain direct client access to senior team members, ensuring continuity and accountability in all matters.
Services
Alternative Dispute Resolution
Business Disputes
Commercial Injunctions
Construction Disputes
Contested Probate
Debt Recovery
Insolvency Cases
Landlord and Tenant Disputes
Professional Negligence
Property Litigation
Details
- Year established: 2008
Highlights and features
- We have over 45 years of combined legal experience in dispute resolution
- Our firm is regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority for professional standards
- We prioritise mediation and alternative dispute resolution where appropriate
- Direct access to senior legal professionals throughout your case
- Proven track record in complex commercial and property litigation
Associations and certifications
- Solicitors Regulation Authority
Services
Alternative Dispute Resolution
We specialise in resolving conflicts through arbitration and mediation, offering cost-effective alternatives to court proceedings. Our experienced team facilitates negotiations to achieve mutually acceptable solutions for commercial and personal disputes. With over 250 formal mediation sessions conducted, we help clients avoid lengthy litigation while maintaining professional relationships.
Commercial Litigation
Our commercial litigation practice handles complex business conflicts including contract breaches and director disputes. We represent clients in high-value cases, with expertise in technology and construction court proceedings. Our approach combines aggressive advocacy with strategic settlement negotiations to protect commercial interests and minimise disruption.
Property Litigation
We resolve property-related conflicts involving boundaries, rights of way, and ownership claims. Our team handles both residential and commercial property disputes, including contested probate matters. With specialist knowledge of land law, we secure injunctions and negotiated settlements to protect property rights and investment value.
Insolvency Cases
Our insolvency practice advises liquidators, directors, and creditors on corporate and personal insolvency matters. We recover misappropriated funds, challenge invalid guarantees, and negotiate debt settlements. With expertise in bankruptcy proceedings and director disqualification cases, we provide strategic solutions for complex financial disputes.
Professional Negligence
We handle claims against professionals including solicitors, surveyors, and accountants for negligent advice or conduct. Our team assesses case merits through expert analysis and pursues compensation for financial losses. We specialise in complex claims requiring detailed understanding of professional standards and duty of care obligations.
People
Melonie Smith
Principal Solicitor
Founded Smith & Wells in 2008 after 9 years at regional firms. Qualified solicitor since 1999 with specialist expertise in commercial litigation. Holds law degree from University of Warwick and Legal Practice Certificate with distinction. Leads complex dispute resolution cases and advocates for mediation solutions.
Damian Cadman-Jones
Consultant Solicitor
Qualified solicitor since 2006 with experience at top 20 national law firm. Specialises in insolvency cases and director liability matters. Advises insolvency practitioners and corporate clients on debt recovery and business restructuring. Holds First Class Honours degree from University of Wales and Legal Practice Certificate with distinction.
Manisha Bhikhi
Senior Paralegal
Senior legal professional since 2015 specialising in debt recovery and property disputes. Handles breach of contract cases and boundary disputes for business clients. Develops client relationships while supporting complex litigation matters. Focuses on practical solutions for commercial property and contractual conflicts.
Questions
What areas of law does Smith & Wells specialise in?
We specialise in litigation and dispute resolution including commercial disputes, property litigation, insolvency cases, and alternative dispute resolution methods like mediation.
How experienced is your legal team?
Our team has over 45 years combined experience, including a principal solicitor with 20+ years in commercial litigation and a consultant with specialist insolvency expertise.
Do you handle both business and personal legal matters?
Yes, we represent both corporate clients and individuals in disputes ranging from director liability to property boundary conflicts and personal injury claims.
What is your approach to dispute resolution?
We prioritise mediation where appropriate, having conducted 250+ formal mediation sessions, while maintaining strong advocacy capabilities for court proceedings when necessary.
Are you regulated by any professional body?
Yes, we are authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority under number 482639, ensuring professional standards and ethical practice.
What areas do you serve?
Based in Coventry, we serve clients across Warwickshire, West Midlands, and accept cases requiring specialist litigation expertise nationwide.
