Disputes Flashcards
(3085 cards)
What is litigation?
Litigation is the formal process used to resolve civil disputes in the courts of England and Wales.
What begins the process of civil litigation?
The process begins when the claimant files a claim against one or more defendants, seeking a court-ordered remedy.
List the core standard steps in civil litigation.
- Formal statements of case from each party
- Disclosure of relevant documents
- Witness statements
- Trial before a judge
What are some additional elements commonly involved in litigation?
- Preparing expert reports
- Filing interim applications
What governs civil litigation in England and Wales?
Civil litigation is governed by the Civil Procedure Rules (the CPR).
What are the Civil Procedure Rules (CPR)?
The CPR are a detailed set of rules and guidance for the conduct of civil litigation in the courts.
Who updates and expands the Civil Procedure Rules?
The Civil Procedure Rule Committee.
What is one advantage of litigation regarding court powers?
The courts have extensive powers to issue and enforce orders, such as freezing assets or forcing the transfer of property.
How can parties expand litigation to include others?
Parties can apply for orders to add connected individuals or businesses as additional parties to the proceedings.
What is an advantage of courts in handling complex cases?
Courts have resources and experience for dealing with very large and complex cases.
What is one disadvantage of litigation?
Who appoints the judge in court proceedings?
The court appoints the judge
Parties cannot choose the judge themselves.
What is a key issue regarding the appointed judge’s experience?
The appointed judge may not have experience in the specific subject matter of the dispute
This can affect the quality of the judgment.
Are court proceedings private or public?
Court proceedings are public
They are recorded as a matter of public record.
What is a potential concern for parties involved in court proceedings?
Sensitive matters may be involved, or businesses or reputations could be negatively impacted
This might discourage parties from litigating.
How quickly do cases typically progress to trial and judgment?
The progression of cases is rarely quick
This can lead to prolonged uncertainty for the parties.
What can legal costs amount to in many cases?
Hundreds of thousands, even millions, of pounds
This makes litigation financially burdensome.
What control do parties have over the course of events once proceedings have commenced?
Little or no control
This can lead to frustration for the parties involved.
What is arbitration?
A formal process that leads to a legally binding outcome
Unlike litigation, arbitration is private.
Who appoints the arbitrator(s) in arbitration?
The parties themselves or under a mechanism they have agreed
This is different from court-appointed judges.
What is the outcome of arbitration called?
An arbitration award
This replaces the judgment found in litigation.
What is the Arbitration Act 1996?
The key piece of legislation supporting arbitrations in England and Wales
It recognizes the validity of arbitrations and enforces arbitration awards.
How is arbitration often viewed in relation to litigation?
More like private litigation
It can take just as long and cost just as much.
What is an important advantage of arbitration?
The process is private
This can protect sensitive information.