PART 1OVERRIDING OBJECTIVE

The overriding objectiveI11.1

1

These Rules are a new procedural code with the overriding objective of enabling the court to deal with cases justly F3and at proportionate cost.

2

Dealing with a case justly F1and at proportionate cost includes, so far as is practicable—

a

ensuring that the parties are on an equal footing F6and can participate fully in proceedings, and that parties and witnesses can give their best evidence;

b

saving expense;

c

dealing with the case in ways which are proportionate—

i

to the amount of money involved;

ii

to the importance of the case;

iii

to the complexity of the issues; and

iv

to the financial position of each party;

d

ensuring that it is dealt with expeditiously and fairly; F4...

e

allotting to it an appropriate share of the court’s resources, while taking into account the need to allot resources to other cases F5; and

F2f

enforcing compliance with rules, practice directions and orders.