In light of the ongoing pandemic and the need to balance the administration of justice whilst ensuring public health, a new practice direction, namely PD 51ZA, has been created which supplements the Civil Procedure Rules and extends time limits previously in place. PD 51ZA came into effect on 2 April 2020 and will be in place until the 30 October 2020 (unless extended further).
The new PD allows parties to agree an extension of up to 56 days in order deal with time limits imposed by the Civil Procedure Rules substituting the previous 28 days provided for under Rule 3.8 of the Civil Procedure Rules. Any extension of time (up to 56 days) must be agreed between the parties and does not require the court’s permission providing that it does not put any hearing date(s) at risk. An extension of more than 56 days, requires the court’s permission by way of application which where possible will be dealt with on paper so without the need for a court hearing.
The new PD also provides that upon considering any application for extensions of time to deal with directions, the adjournment of hearings, or applications for relief from sanctions, the court will take into account the impact of the pandemic.
Should you require further information or advice on the new practice direction and how this may affect you, please contact Leanne Schneider-Rose on 0121 698 2200 or email l.schneider-rose@sydneymitchell.co.uk
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