As a defence litigator of 25 years experience there are by and large three defences. First, In the minority you defend on the merits. Second, negotiate. You use the 'threat' of defending, to compromise, Third; obfuscate, delay, bluff etc. In my opinion the third is seriously unsatisfactory and does not suit my style but the reality is that you are obligated to do the best for your client ... and well, what can I say? it seems to work. Anyway I have moved from litigation to property law and have less stress.