Publication date: 13.07.2025
Experienced legal professional with over 15 years of expertise in Business Law, Litigation, and Sports Law. Holds an LL.M. degree. Founder of HelpChain – a Ukrainian Employment Integration Project. Currently serves as Director of Communications and Public Relations (Eastern Europe) at Wisdom Trust.
Victory in the High Court: Solomiia Baranets’ Case on Recovering a Tenant’s Advance Payment
This case involved over two years of legal proceedings for our client, a commercial tenant who suffered substantial losses due to a failed lease agreement. Attorney Solomiia Baranets provided comprehensive litigation support, collected all necessary evidence, and successfully defended the client’s interests in the High Court, culminating in a full legal victory after four days of hearings.
Case Background
The client entered into a preliminary commercial lease agreement, paid a significant advance (equal to six months of rent), and invested in major renovations. It later emerged that the property was under mortgage, and bank consent was required to finalize the lease. That consent was never obtained, meaning the lease never came into legal force.
Legal Support Stages
1. Legal Risk Assessment and Defense Strategy
- Conducted full legal analysis of the client’s position
- Identified violations by the landlord and absence of required bank consent
- Developed a court-based strategy to recover the advance payment
2. Pre-Trial Negotiations
- Prepared formal claims and conducted correspondence with the landlord
- Initiated negotiations for an out-of-court settlement
- Received refusal from the opposing party to return the funds voluntarily
3. Court Preparation
- Collected written and photographic evidence of renovation works
- Prepared witness statements and expert assessments
- Built a defense to counter the landlord’s claims regarding use of the advance
4. Representation in the High Court
- Represented the client throughout the four-day hearing
- Refuted arguments about lawful retention of the funds
- Secured full recognition of the client’s right to reimbursement
Outcome
- The High Court ruled in favor of the client
- The client was awarded full reimbursement and legal costs
- The defendant was ordered to cover the majority of court expenses
Customer feedback
Frequently Asked Questions
Question
Can an advance payment be refunded if the lease wasn’t finalized?
Answer
Yes. In the absence of required consents and if obligations are unmet, advance payments must be returned.
Question
How can losses be proven if the lease was not signed?
Answer
Through invoices, work reports, photos, and witness testimony.
Question
How long does a High Court case usually take?
Answer
The process can last over a year, including pre-trial stages, preparation, and hearings.
This case is a strong example of how a well-thought-out legal strategy, in-depth knowledge of the law, and consistent effort by an attorney can result in a just outcome even in complex and lengthy disputes. The High Court victory not only restored the client’s rights but also emphasized the importance of professional legal support at every stage — from risk assessment to courtroom argumentation.
Solomiia Baranets demonstrated a high level of legal skill, strategic thinking, and professionalism. She not only safeguarded the client’s interests but also helped prevent further financial damage by securing full reimbursement and a clear legal resolution.
This outcome was made possible through meticulous attention to detail, strong evidentiary preparation, and the ability to advocate effectively before the court. Solomiia’s work is a model of legal representation grounded in integrity, determination, and client-centered commitment.
If you are facing a similar issue or want to minimize legal risks before signing commercial agreements, attorney Solomiya Baranets is ready to offer strategic legal guidance and effective protection at every stage — from negotiation to litigation.
