Time and again, experience demonstrates the value of careful preparatory discussions, thorough examination of the relevant documents and clarity in laying out the reasoning and the conclusions. It is well worth taking the time to do a thorough job at the outset, because it saves time later on.

Whether or not your problem is likely to end up in court, if you want to win, you have to be very focused and realistic. Case preparation is everything. Scrutiny of the other side's case must be thorough. The appropriate arguments have to be martialled properly, and explained clearly. Precise, clear explanations, pointing towards specific conclusions, are a speciality.

Lateral thinking helps, as well.