General
Avoiding delay
113.—(1) In proceedings in which a question may arise as to whether an adoption order or placement order should be made, or any other question with respect to such an order, the court must (in the light of any rules made by virtue of subsection (2))—
(a)draw up a timetable with a view to determining such a question without delay; and
(b)give such directions as it considers appropriate for the purpose of ensuring that the timetable is adhered to.
(2) Rules of court may—
(a)prescribe periods within which prescribed steps must be taken in relation to such proceedings; and
(b)make other provision with respect to such proceedings for the purpose of ensuring that such questions are determined without delay.
Service of notices etc.
114.—(1) Any notice or information required to be given by virtue of this Act may be given by post.
(2) Section 24 of the Interpretation Act (Northern Ireland) 1954 has effect in relation to this Act as if in subsection (1) the word “registering” were omitted.
Jurisdiction of courts
115.—(1) In this Act “the court” means the High Court or a county court.
(2) Subsection (1) is subject to any provision made by or under subsection (4) or Schedule 7 to the Children Order.
(3) In paragraphs 1 and 2 of Schedule 7 to the Children Order, after “this Order” in each place where it occurs insert “or the Adoption and Children Act (Northern Ireland) 2022”.
(4) The Department of Justice may, after consulting the Lord Chief Justice, by order provide for courts of summary jurisdiction to be included among the courts who may hear proceedings under this Part.
(5) Any power to make an order under subsection (4) may, in particular, be exercised by amending, repealing, revoking or otherwise modifying any provision made by or under this Act or any other statutory provision.