The evidence needed will depend on the dispute, but documents are often central.

Useful evidence may include contracts, invoices, emails, letters, terms and conditions, purchase orders, delivery records, payment records, board minutes, shareholder agreements, partnership agreements, lease documents, reports and records of meetings or calls.

It is helpful to preserve evidence as soon as a dispute arises. Avoid deleting emails, messages or documents, and take advice before sending further correspondence. What is said at an early stage can become important later if the dispute escalates.