Calgary & Strathmore Litigation Lawyers

When a dispute can’t be resolved on your own, you need litigators who will. The seasoned advocates at Getz Collins and Associates represent individuals and businesses across Calgary, Strathmore, and Alberta in a wide range of litigation — the legal process of resolving disputes through negotiation, alternative dispute resolution, and, when necessary, the courts.

Our focus is civil litigation: disputes over money, contracts, property, businesses, construction, and estates. We pride ourselves on accessibility and responsiveness at every stage, and we offer both bundled, all-inclusive representation and stand-alone services to fit your circumstances and budget.

Looking for a different kind of dispute?

If your matter involves criminal charges, see our Criminal Law page. For divorce, parenting, or support disputes, see Family Law. For workplace disputes, see Employment Law. We’ll point you to the right team.

The Disputes We Help Clients Resolve

Most people don’t think about their problem in legal categories. They think, “I’m owed money,” or “someone broke our deal,” or “a family member’s will isn’t right.” Below are the kinds of disputes our litigation team handles most often. Select any area to learn how the process works and what your options are.

Getting paid what you’re owed

Debt Collection & Garnishment

You did the work or lent the money, and now you can’t get paid. We help individuals and businesses recover unpaid debts, enforce judgments, and use tools like garnishment to collect.

Builder’s Liens & Construction Disputes

If you supplied labour or materials to a construction project and weren’t paid, a builder’s lien can secure your claim—but the deadlines are short and strict. We act for contractors, subcontractors, suppliers, and property owners.

Judgment Enforcement & Collections

Won in court but still not paid? A judgment is only worth what you can collect. We use the full range of enforcement tools to turn a judgment into recovered dollars.

When an agreement falls apart

Breach of Contract

When one side doesn’t uphold their end of an agreement, we help enforce your rights or defend against claims.

Shareholder & Partnership Disputes

Business disputes can threaten everything you’ve built. We work to resolve disagreements efficiently while protecting your interests.

Insurance Disputes

If your insurer has denied, delayed, or underpaid a legitimate claim, we help policyholders pursue the coverage they’re entitled to.

Property and Family Legacy

Real Estate & Property Disputes

Boundary issues, purchase disputes, undisclosed defects, and co-ownership disagreements.

Foreclosure

Whether you’re facing foreclosure or enforcing a mortgage, we guide clients through Alberta’s court-supervised process.

Estate Litigation

Disputes involving wills, executors, beneficiaries, or estate administration.

Stages of Litigation in Alberta

While the length and complexity of each litigation matter depends on its circumstances, they follow a general trajectory:

1. The plaintiff files their claim with the court and serves a copy of the claim on the defendant;
2. The defendant files their defence (response to the claim) and serves a copy on the plaintiff;
3. The parties engage in the discovery process, which involves the exchange of all documents and information in the parties’ possession that are relevant to the claim. The discovery process may also involve questioning of the parties in an Examination for Discovery;
4. Throughout the litigation process, the parties usually explore the possibility of settlement. This is generally done via alternative dispute resolution processes, such as negotiation, mediation, or judicial dispute resolution;
5. If the parties cannot resolve the claim, the matter will be set down for trial. Most civil litigation cases are heard by a judge alone, without a jury.

The Benefit of Flexible, Tailored Litigation Services

In an attempt to save money on legal fees, many litigants attempt to represent themselves during the litigation process. Given the complex nature of litigation and the potential for a claim to drag on for years if mishandled, self-representation is inadvisable. The longer a court case lasts, the more potential court costs a litigant will face.

The litigation lawyers at Getz Collins and Associates formulate effective legal strategies to position clients for success at trial while exploring all viable options for early resolution. Recognizing the unique nature of each legal challenge, we offer flexible, cost-effective fee arrangements to accommodate each client’s circumstances. We are also sensitive to the amount of support required and provide both bundled, all-inclusive litigation representation as well as stand-alone services.

Getz Collins and Associates: Providing Dynamic Litigation Services in Calgary & Strathmore

Since its inception in 1984, Getz Collins and Associates has stood as a cornerstone of the Alberta legal community. Our approach is rooted in tradition while embracing modern innovation, empowering us to provide attentive and pragmatic service in a broad array of litigation matters. Our litigation lawyers have built lasting client relationships throughout Alberta and have an established reputation for exceptional advocacy and representation in and out of the courtroom.

With locations in Calgary and Strathmore, Getz Collins and Associates combines community roots with a modern, big-firm approach. We proudly serve clients across the province, including in Airdrie, Cochrane, Okotoks, Drumheller, Chestermere, Hussar, and the surrounding areas. To schedule a confidential consultation on your litigation matter, please contact us online or call 587-391-5600.

Frequently Asked Questions About Litigation

What is civil litigation?

Civil litigation is the legal process used to resolve disputes between individuals, businesses, or organizations. Common civil litigation matters include breach of contract claims, debt collection, business disputes, real estate disputes, and other conflicts where one party seeks compensation or another legal remedy through the courts.

When should I hire a litigation lawyer in Calgary?

You should consider speaking with a litigation lawyer as soon as a dispute arises that may result in legal action. Early legal advice can help you understand your rights, evaluate potential risks, explore settlement options, and develop a strategy before the matter escalates.

How long does a civil lawsuit take in Alberta?

The length of a civil lawsuit varies depending on the complexity of the dispute, the number of parties involved, court scheduling, and whether the matter can be resolved through negotiation or mediation. Some disputes may be resolved within months, while more complex litigation matters can take significantly longer.

What is the difference between litigation and mediation?

Litigation involves resolving a dispute through the court system, where a judge ultimately makes a decision if the parties cannot reach an agreement. Mediation is a voluntary dispute resolution process where a neutral third party helps the parties negotiate a mutually acceptable resolution without proceeding to trial.

Can a civil dispute be resolved without going to court?

Yes. Many civil disputes are resolved through negotiation, mediation, settlement discussions, or other forms of alternative dispute resolution before reaching trial. Early resolution can often reduce costs, save time, and provide greater flexibility for the parties involved.

What types of disputes do litigation lawyers handle?

Our litigation lawyers may assist with a wide range of disputes, including breach of contract claims, debt collection matters, business and commercial disputes, real estate disputes, partnership disagreements, shareholder conflicts, and other legal matters requiring negotiation, mediation, or court representation.