Allocation: The point in proceedings when a judge considers the claim and the defence, decides which track is appropriate for the claim and gives a timetable to bring the case before the court for trial.
Arbitration: An alternative form of dispute resolution using an expert (such as a surveyor) in the role of a judge. The process is similar to court proceedings but is less formal.
Adjudication: An alternative form of dispute resolution using an expert as a decision-maker on a specific matter. It is widely used in construction and technology disputes.
CPR: The Civil Procedure Rules. They govern the way that proceedings in court must be pursued. If they are not followed, the court can make costs orders against you.
Directions: The timetable of actions set by a judge which needs to be completed by the parties to bring a case to readiness for trial.
Fast Track: A stream of court cases valued over £10,000 and not exceeding £25,000. The trial is limited to a maximum of 1 day.
Litigation: Proceedings in court, including small claims.
Multi-Track: A stream of court cases valued over the fast-track limit or involving complex points of law or evidence and/or requiring more than a 1 day trial.
Part 36 Offer: An offer or settlement made under Part 36 of the Civil Procedure Rules (CPR) which, if rejected and later beaten at trial, or if accepted immediately, will carry automatic costs and interest consequences.
Small Claims Track: A court process for claims valued £10,000 and under. Costs are not generally recoverable so engaging a solicitor to act for you may not be cost effective. We offer fixed fee appointments to advise you before you start the process.
Without Prejudice: A way to make offers to settle a case as a whole or any part which cannot be mentioned in court proceedings.
Without prejudice save as to costs: A communication that cannot be referred to in court until the end of the trial, when the court awards legal costs to the successful party.