Civil litigation costs review

In November 2008, Sir Anthony Clarke, Master of the Rolls, commissioned Lord Justice Jackson to undertake a comprehensive review of the costs of civil litigation. At a press conference held last Friday, and attended by the Master of the Rolls, Sir Rupert presented his initial report summarising the results of the first phase of the review process.

Scope of the report

The issue of costs is a complex and far-reaching one, so much so that this review must by necessity be a root and branch exercise. The terms of reference of this report bear this out: “whether changes in process and/or procedure could bring about more proportionate costs.” Considering the breadth of issues to be covered the time period by which Jackson LJ must conclude the report is admirable in its brevity:

      
      ●     January to April: Phase 1—fact finding.

      
      ●     May to July: Phase 2—consultation.

      
      ●     September to December: Phase 3—preparation of the final report.

Conclusion of Phase