Are your significant supplier/customer contracts recorded in writing or have you been trading so long that you have lost track of the contract terms?

When ordering goods do you actually look at the supplier's standard terms and conditions and do you understand them?.

Not all standard written terms are actually binding (particularly the more draconian ones) but where does that leave you?

If you end up in dispute, is the other party someone with whom you want an on-going business relationship?

Before involving the lawyers, is there a trade association or other independent body who might be able to mediate and assist a negotiated settlement?

If the lawyers are involved, you should discuss with them the option of alternative methods of resolving the dispute short of going to Court.