county court and high court jurisdiction (section a - civil courts and adr) Flashcards
What are the two main civil trial courts in England and Wales?
The main civil trial courts in England and Wales are the County Court and the High Court.
Which court usually hears most civil cases?
The County Court usually hears most civil cases. (95%)
What types of cases may be heard at the High Court instead of the County Court?
Very expensive or complicated areas of law may be heard at the High Court instead of the County Court.
How many County Courts are there approximately?
There are approximately 200 County Courts (although the government is planning to close about 50 of these to encourage ADR)
What is the maximum claim that can be heard at the County Court?
The maximum claim that can be heard at the County Court is usually restricted to cases worth less than £100,000, but the County Court can hear cases worth more if the parties agree.
What are the main areas of jurisdiction of the County Court?
The main areas of jurisdiction of the County Court are contract, tort, land, wills (up to £30,000), and family cases.
Who hears cases at the County Court?
Cases at the County Court are heard by a Circuit Judge or a District Judge, depending on the value of the case. Part-time judges (known as Recorders) can also hear cases at the County Court
When is a jury of 8 people used in the County Court?
It is very rare, but a jury of 8 people may be used for defamation, malicious prosecution, and false imprisonment cases in the County Court.
Where is the High Court based?
The High Court is based in London, but it has judges sitting in several towns and cities in England & Wales
What types of cases does the High Court usually hear?
The High Court usually hears the more expensive multi-track cases (£50,000 plus).
Can appeals from the County Court be heard at the High Court?
Yes
How many divisions does the High Court have and what are they specialized in?
The High Court has three divisions, each of which specializes in dealing with a certain type of case: QBD (Queen’s Bench Division), Chancery, and Family.
