Directions
Once all the Allocation forms have been received by the court, or the time for them to be returned has expired, the court will issue directions to the parties.
The default standard directions state that:
- Copies of all documents (including expert's reports) should be sent to the other parties and the court before a specified date (14 days before the hearing).
- Original documents to be brought to the hearing
- The date of the hearing
- The time allocated for the hearing
There are alternative standard directions for particular kinds of cases. These include:
- Road accidents
- Building, vehicle repairs and similar contractual disputes
- Landlord/Tenant disputes over damage/return of deposits
- Wedding & Holiday claims
Other sets of standard directions may be added in the future.
The court may also make special directions tailored to the needs of a particular case.
It is also possible that the court may decide to hold a preliminary hearing or deal with the matter entirely by paper.