Explanatory Note to Standard Directions and Glossary

When the Tribunal issues proceedings it provides instructions to the parties on how they are to prepare the case. These instructions are known as “Standard Directions” [Rule 20 SDPR 2019].

The Standard Directions are important and must not be ignored. The Standard Directions assist the Tribunal in achieving the ‘Overriding Objective’: to deal with cases justly and at proportionate cost [Rule 4 SDPR 2019] . The parties are jointly responsible for ensuring the overriding objective is met. Amongst other things, they must ensure that the case does not drift and meet the timetable set out in the Standard Directions.

Please refer to this explanatory note for further information. The document also includes an answer template.