Pre-trial Procedures Civil

Starting a Claim

Sending a letter to the defendant explaining:

• The facts

• What the claimant wants

• Time limit to respond

Issuing a Claim

• Use an N1 Form, available online.

• Must include:

  • The specifics of claim

  • The remedy wanted

  • Court fees

• Defendant receives the form and must respond within 14 days by:

  • Admitting the claim

  • Defending the claim

  • Acknowledging service (gets an extra 14 days to prepare a defence)

Case Track Allocation

Cases are allocated to tracks based on complexity and monetary value.

Small Claims

Up to £10k (or £1k for PI)

County Court

Simple cases (like debt)

Fast Track

£10k–£25k

County Court

Straightforward but not simple cases

Multi-Track

Over £25k

County Court (but most likely High Court)

Complex

Pre-trial Track Procedure

Once on a track the court issues directions to manage the case -

• Disclosure of evidence (documents)

• Medical reports in personal injury cases

• Timetables for submitting evidence