Public procurement
We provide advice and assistance on public procurement matters, representing bidders throughout the procurement process from the tendering stage through to contract award and beyond. Our services include assisting with tender submissions, defending successful bidders against appeals, challenging irregularly awarded contracts, and advising on issues arising during the performance and enforcement of public contracts.
Procurement challenges move on tight deadlines. Where a tender has been irregularly awarded, the window to object is short, and we would always rather hear from a bidder early than be asked to rescue a position after it has closed.
Civil litigation and advice
Our civil law practice offers comprehensive assistance with contracts, torts, employment matters, and consumer protection. Our work in torts includes assistance with claims for damages and liability cases. In employment law we act for both employers and employees in matters such as contracts, disputes, and workplace rights.
We also assist with matters relating to inheritance and succession planning, offering guidance on wills and estates amongst other areas.
Where we appear
- The Civil Court, in its ordinary and superior jurisdictions
- The Court of Magistrates in civil matters
- The Public Contracts Review Board on tender appeals
- The Industrial Tribunal in employment disputes
- The Consumer Claims Tribunal
- Arbitration and mediation, as counsel and as arbitrator
Alternative dispute resolution
Not every dispute belongs in court. Dr Richard Sladden practises in alternative dispute resolution and arbitration as well as litigation, and has presided over multiple boards and tribunals, including the Consumer Affairs Tribunal, the Licensing Appeals Board and the VAT Appeal Board.
Having sat on the deciding side of a tribunal changes how a case is put to one. Where arbitration or mediation offers a faster and cheaper route to the same result, we will say so, even where litigation would be the more profitable course for the firm.
Court-appointed expertise
Dr Richard Sladden is frequently appointed by the Superior Courts of Malta to act as Legal Expert, and is regularly appointed as a Court Expert by Inquiring Magistrates. That work gives the firm an unusually direct view of how evidence is assessed and how findings are reached, which informs how we prepare a case from the first day.
Common questions
- Can I challenge a public tender that was awarded to someone else?
- Often, yes, but the time limits are short and strictly applied. If you believe a contract has been irregularly awarded, contact us as soon as the award is published rather than after the contract has been signed.
- Do you act for employers or employees?
- Both. We advise employers on contracts, policies and disciplinary process, and we represent employees in disputes over dismissal, conditions and workplace rights before the Industrial Tribunal.
- Do you handle wills and inheritance?
- Yes. We assist with succession planning, the drafting of wills, and disputes over estates, including matters involving heirs resident outside Malta.