Case management conferences

Question 1

to which tracks do these rules apply to?

Answer 1

These rules apply to MT but CMC rules would likely apply to FT + IT

Question 2

what happens at the CMC?

Answer 2

Court will check steps taken, compliance with any CMDs + issue CMDs

may set trial timetable

permission for expert only granted if expert details provided

Question 3

who must attend the CMC? What are the potential consequences?

Answer 3

If represented, a legal rep familiar with the case + with sufficient authority must attend CMC (+PTR).

Inadequate person leading to adjournment = wasted costs order

Question 4

what should parties do ahead of the CMC?

Answer 4

o Ensure all documents likely to be necessary are available
o Consider whether parties should attend
o Consider if a case summary would be useful
o Consider orders sought (+ give notice to other parties)

Question 5

what are the requirements for the case summary?

Answer 5

o Should assist court to understand questions before it
o Set out a brief chronology, agreed + disputed issues, evidence needed to decide them
o Capped at 500 words + should be agreed by parties (if possible)

Question 6

when will a cost management conference be listed? how does this usually take place?

Answer 6

Most CMCs are cost and case management hearings

Court may list a cost management hearing to deal with costs alone if complex

Should be conducted by telephone or in writing