Household Name Financial Services Firm Facing Civil Action

Challenge

The client, a household name services company, faced a class action lawsuit.

Proceedings were brought after investors alleged the company had engaged in mis-selling. One of the key challenges was the fact that the claimants had a media strategy aimed at generating maximum press coverage and interest. 

Solution

Alder supported the client with comprehensive strategic communications guidance throughout the legal process, ensuring preparedness for every stage, scenario and outcome. Support included:

- Strategic advice ahead of the court proceedings to anticipate potential reputational risks and media interest
- Drafting key messaging for national and local media, including pre-prepared statements for multiple scenarios
- One-to-one media training for the CEO to prepare for potential personal press scrutiny
- Guidance on aligning all external communications with legal strategy, ensuring consistency and minimising risk
- Acting as a sounding board during the hearing to refine messaging as events developed
- Post-hearing stakeholder management advice to help protect relationships and maintain trust

Outcome

- Media coverage remained low-key, limited to sector-specific publications rather than national press
- Client’s position was communicated clearly and effectively
- Reputational impact was minimised and stakeholder confidence maintained