Part 1 Preliminary
Division 1 General
1.1 Name of rules
These rules are the Uniform Civil Procedure Rules 2005.
1.2 Definitions
(1) Words and expressions that are defined in the Dictionary at the end of these rules have the meanings set out in the Dictionary.(2) Notes included in these rules do not form part of these rules.Note—In the notes, DCR means the District Court Rules 1973, LCR means the Local Courts (Civil Claims) Rules 1988 and SCR means the Supreme Court Rules 1970.
1.3 References to barristers and solicitors
(1) For the purposes of these rules:(a) a reference in these rules to a barrister is a reference to a legal practitioner who practises as a barrister, and(b) a reference in these rules to a solicitor is a reference to a legal practitioner who practises as a solicitor.Note—The rights of a person to practise as a barrister or to practise as a solicitor are regulated by the Legal Profession Act 2004.(2) For the purposes of rule 33.9 (9), a reference to a solicitor for a party includes a reference to:(a) a solicitor acting as agent for the solicitor for a party, and(b) any other solicitor belonging to or employed by the same firm or organisation as the solicitor for a party or the solicitor acting as agent for the solicitor for a party.(3) For the purposes of rule 33.9 (10):(a) a reference to a solicitor who removes a document or thing from the office of the registrar includes a reference to a solicitor who directs a person referred to in paragraph (b) to remove a document or thing from the office of the registrar, and(b) a reference to the personal custody of the solicitor includes a reference to the personal custody of:(i) any other solicitor belonging to or employed by the same firm or organisation as that solicitor, or any other person employed by that firm or organisation, and(ii) any other solicitor acting as agent for that solicitor, and(iii) any other solicitor belonging to or employed by the same firm or organisation as a solicitor acting as agent for that solicitor, or any other person employed by that firm or organisation, and(iv) if the registrar has approved a firm or organisation to provide photocopying services in respect of documents, any employee of a firm or organisation so approved.rule 1.3: Am 2006 (288), Sch 1 [1]; 2006 (716), Sch 1 [1]–[4].
1.4 Saving as to discovery
(cf SCR Part 1, rule 14)
These rules do not affect the right of any person to commence proceedings for discovery.
1.5 Application of these rules
(1) Subject to subrule (2), these rules apply to each court referred to in Column 1 of Schedule 1 in relation to civil proceedings of a kind referred to in Column 2 of that Schedule.(2) In respect of each court referred to in Column 1 of Schedule 1, civil proceedings of a kind referred to in Column 2 of that Schedule are excluded from the operation of each provision of these rules referred to in Column 4 of that Schedule in respect of those proceedings.
1.6 Exclusion of provisions of Civil Procedure Act 2005
In respect of each court referred to in Column 1 of Schedule 1:(a) civil proceedings of a kind referred to in Column 2 of that Schedule are excluded from the operation of the provisions of Parts 3–9 of the Civil Procedure Act 2005 referred to in Column 3 of that Schedule in respect of those proceedings, and(b) the following proceedings, to the extent to which they are civil proceedings, are excluded from all of Parts 3–9 of the Civil Procedure Act 2005:(i) proceedings under the Mental Health (Criminal Procedure) Act 1990,(ii) proceedings under the Habitual Criminals Act 1957,(iii) proceedings under the Bail Act 1978,(iv) proceedings under the Crimes (Domestic and Personal Violence) Act 2007,(v) proceedings under Part 4 of the Victims Support and Rehabilitation Act 1996.rule 1.6: Am 2009 (88), Sch 1 [1].
1.7 Local rules that prevail over these rules
The rules of court specified in Schedule 2 prevail over these rules.
1.8 Determination of questions arising under these rules
(cf SCR Part 23, rule 4 (b) and (d))
The court may determine any question arising under these rules (including any question of privilege) and, for that purpose:(a) may inspect any document in relation to which such a question arises, and(b) if the document is not before the court, may order that the document be produced to the court for inspection.
1.9 Objections to production of documents and answering of questions founded on privilege
(cf SCR Part 36, rule 13; DCR Part 28, rule 16)
(1) This rule applies in the following circumstances:(a) if the court orders a person, by subpoena or otherwise, to produce a document to the court or to an authorised officer,(b) if a party requires another party, by notice under rule 34.1, to produce a document to the court or to an authorised officer,(c) if a question is put to a person in the course of an examination before the court or an authorised officer.(2) In subrule (1), means:(a) any officer of the court, or(b) any examiner, referee, arbitrator or other person who is authorised by law to receive evidence.(3) A person may object to producing a document on the ground that the document is a privileged document or to answering a question on the ground that the answer would disclose privileged information.(4) A person objecting under subrule (3) may not be compelled to produce the document, or to answer the question, unless and until the objection is overruled.(5) For the purpose of ruling on the objection:(a) evidence in relation to the claim of privilege may be received from any person, by affidavit or otherwise, and(b) cross-examination may be permitted on any affidavit used, and(c) in the case of an objection to the production of a document, the person objecting may be compelled to produce the document.(6) This rule does not affect any law that authorises or requires a person to withhold a document, or to refuse to answer a question, on the ground that producing the document, or answering the question, would be injurious to the public interest.rule 1.9: Subst 2005 (396), Sch 1 [1]. Am 2009 (88), Sch 1 [2].
1.10 Powers of the judicial registrar
(DCR Part 43A, rule 1)
(1) For the purposes of section 18FB (1) of the District Court Act 1973, all of the powers of the District Court are conferred on the judicial registrar of that Court other than:(a) the powers of the Court in its criminal jurisdiction, or(b) the power of the Court to deal with contempt of court.(2) Subrule (1) (b) does not prevent the judicial registrar from reporting to the District Court constituted by a Judge any allegation of contempt of the Court.
1.10A Powers of associate Judges of the Supreme Court
(cf SCR Part 60, rule 1A)
(1) Subject to subrule (2), an associate Judge of the Supreme Court may exercise any of the powers of the Court under the Civil Procedure Act 2005, or under rules of court, in relation to defamation proceedings.(2) An associate Judge may not exercise the power conferred by rule 29.15 or 29.16 in relation to any such proceedings.Note—Section 118 of the Supreme Court Act 1970 sets out the powers exercisable by an associate Judge. Those powers include powers conferred by rules of court. In addition to the power conferred by this rule, see rule 1A of Part 60 of the Supreme Court Rules 1970, together with Schedule D to those rules, for other powers of the Supreme Court that may be exercised by an associate Judge.rule 1.10A: Ins 2005 (807), Sch 1 [1].
Division 2 Time
1.11 Reckoning of time
(cf SCR Part 2, rule 2; DCR Part 3, rule 1; LCR Part 4, rule 1)
(1) Any period of time fixed by these rules, or by any judgment or order of the court or by any document in any proceedings, is to be reckoned in accordance with this rule.(2) If a time of one day or longer is to be reckoned by reference to a given day or event, the given day or the day of the given event is not to be counted.(3) If, apart from this subrule, the period in question, being a period of 5 days or less, would include a day or part of a day on which the registry is closed, that day is to be excluded.(4) If the last day for doing a thing is, or a thing is to be done on, a day on which the registry is closed, the thing may be done on the next day on which the registry is open.(5) Section 36 of the Interpretation Act 1987 (which relates to the reckoning of time) does not apply to these rules.
1.12 Extension and abridgment of time
(cf SCR Part 2, rule 3; DCR Part 3, rule 2; LCR Part 4, rule 2)
(1) Subject to these rules, the court may, by order, extend or abridge any time fixed by these rules or by any judgment or order of the court.(2) The court may extend time under this rule, either before or after the time expires, and may do so after the time expires even if an application for extension is made after the time expires.rule 1.12: Am 2007 (449), Sch 1 [1].
1.13 Fixing times
(cf SCR Part 2, rule 4; DCR Part 3, rule 3; LCR Part 4, rule 3)
If no time is fixed by these rules, or by any judgment or order of the court, for the doing of any thing in or in connection with any proceedings, the court may, by order, fix the time within which the thing is to be done.
Division 3 Fees and other amounts
1.14 Prescribed fees and other amounts
The fees and other amounts prescribed by these rules are set out in Schedule 3.
1.15 Fees chargeable under the Oaths Act 1900
The fees chargeable under section 28 of the Oaths Act 1900 are set out in item 1 of Schedule 3.
Division 4 Distribution of business between Divisions of Supreme Court
pt 1, div 4 (rules 1.16–1.21): Ins 2006 (391), Sch 1 [1].
1.16 Assignment of business to Divisions
(cf SCR Part 12, rule 1 (1))
Proceedings in the Supreme Court:(a) under an Act or instrument referred to in Column 1 of Part 1 or 2 of Schedule 8, orare assigned to the Division of the Court referred to in Column 3 of that Part in respect of that Act, instrument or provision.(b) under a provision referred to in Column 2 of that Part in respect of such an Act or instrument,pt 1, div 4 (rules 1.16–1.21): Ins 2006 (391), Sch 1 [1].
1.17 Bulk transfers between Supreme Court Divisions
(cf SCR Part 14A, rule 7)
The Supreme Court may of its own motion, by a single order, direct that proceedings of a specified type be transferred between the Common Law Division and the Equity Division.pt 1, div 4 (rules 1.16–1.21): Ins 2006 (391), Sch 1 [1].
1.18 Assignment of business to Common Law Division
(cf SCR Part 12, rule 1 (3))
The following proceedings in the Supreme Court are assigned to the Common Law Division:(a) proceedings for a debt arising under any Act (including any Commonwealth Act) by which any tax, fee, duty or other impost is collected or administered by or on behalf of the State or the Commonwealth,(b) proceedings on an appeal or application to the Court:(i) in respect of a decision of a public body (other than a court or tribunal) or public officer (other than an officer of a court or tribunal), or(ii) for the removal into the Court of any matter before a public body (other than a court or tribunal) or public officer (other than an officer of a court or tribunal),(c) proceedings on an appeal or application to the Court in respect of:(i) a decision of a public body constituted or established by or under a Commonwealth Act (other than a court exercising federal jurisdiction within the meaning of section 26 of the Acts Interpretation Act 1901 of the Commonwealth), or(ii) a decision of a person holding or acting in a public office under a Commonwealth Act (other than an officer of a court referred to in subparagraph (i)),(d) subject to section 53 of the Supreme Court Act 1970, proceedings that are not assigned to the Equity Division by these rules.pt 1, div 4 (rules 1.16–1.21): Ins 2006 (391), Sch 1 [1].
1.19 Assignment of business to Equity Division
(cf SCR Part 12, rule 5 (b))
The following proceedings in the Supreme Court are assigned to the Equity Division:(a) proceedings on an application for a writ of habeas corpus ad subjiciendum in respect of a minor,(b) proceedings for orders for the custody of and access to minors,(c) proceedings on an appeal to the Court in a Division in proceedings between husband and wife or parent and child,(d) proceedings for orders under and provision by or under any Act that a debenture or bond issued by a corporation constituted by that Act, or a coupon annexed to that debenture or bond, has been lost or destroyed or defaced and directions by or under that Act for advertisement relating to that debenture, bond or coupon,(e) proceedings for orders under any provision made by or under any Act for the appointment of a receiver of the income of a corporation which is constituted by that Act and which makes default in payment to the holder of any debenture, or coupon, issued or stock inscribed by that corporation,(f) proceedings in relation to any provision in any Act or Commonwealth Act by which a tax, fee, duty or other impost is levied, collected or administered by or on behalf of the State or the Commonwealth (other than proceedings for debt that are assigned to the Common Law Division by rule 1.18 (a)).pt 1, div 4 (rules 1.16–1.21): Ins 2006 (391), Sch 1 [1].
1.20 Declarations of right and injunctions
(cf SCR Part 12, rule 3)
Proceedings need not be assigned to the Equity Division solely because a declaration of right or an injunction is claimed in the proceedings.pt 1, div 4 (rules 1.16–1.21): Ins 2006 (391), Sch 1 [1].
1.21 Removal to Court of Appeal
(cf SCR Part 12, rule 2)
(1) The Supreme Court in a Division may, in relation to proceedings commenced in the Division, make an order that the proceedings be removed into the Court of Appeal:(a) if it makes an order under rule 28.2 for the decision of a question of law, or(b) if, having stated the question to be decided or determined, it is satisfied that special circumstances exist that render it desirable to make an order for their removal into the Court of Appeal.(2) If an order is made under subrule (1):(a) the Court of Appeal may order that the whole or any part of the proceedings be remitted to a Division for the determination, by trial or otherwise, of the proceedings or of any question arising in the proceedings, or(b) the proceedings may be continued and disposed of in the Court of Appeal.(3) Proceedings may be removed into the Court of Appeal under subrule (1) even if any decision or determination in the proceedings is expressed by any Act or law to be final or without appeal.(4) In this rule, question includes any question or issue in any proceedings, whether of fact or law or partly of fact and partly of law, and whether raised by pleadings, agreement of parties or otherwise.pt 1, div 4 (rules 1.16–1.21): Ins 2006 (391), Sch 1 [1].
Division 5 Notices under section 78B of Judiciary Act 1903 of Commonwealth
pt 1, div 5 (rules 1.22–1.25): Ins 2006 (716), Sch 1 [5].
(1) If proceedings pending in a court involve a matter arising under the Commonwealth Constitution or involving its interpretation within the meaning of section 78B of the Judiciary Act 1903 of the Commonwealth, the party whose case raises the matter must file a notice of a constitutional matter.Note—Section 78B of the Judiciary Act 1903 of the Commonwealth provides that if a cause is pending in a State court that involves a matter arising under the Commonwealth Constitution or involving its interpretation, the court is under a duty not to proceed in the cause unless or until it is satisfied that notice of the cause and the matter raised in the cause has been served on the Attorneys-General of the Commonwealth and the States.The purpose of such a notice is to afford the Attorneys-General a reasonable time to consider whether or not they wish to intervene in the proceedings or to have the cause removed into the High Court for determination.(2) Notice of a constitutional matter must state:(a) specifically the nature of the matter, and(b) facts showing the matter is one to which subrule (1) applies.pt 1, div 5 (rules 1.22–1.25): Ins 2006 (716), Sch 1 [5].
1.23 Time for filing and service of notice of constitutional matter
(cf Federal Court Rules, Order 51, rule 2)
(1) The party whose case raises the constitutional matter, or such other party as the court may direct, must file notice of a constitutional matter and serve a copy of the notice on all other parties and the Attorneys-General of the Commonwealth, the States, the Australian Capital Territory and the Northern Territory:(a) if the matter arises before any directions hearing or case management conference in the proceedings, not later than 2 days before the date of that hearing or conference, or(b) if no directions hearing or case management conference has been fixed or is imminent, as soon as practicable, or(c) if the matter arises at a hearing, within such time as the court directs.(2) As soon as practicable after a party files and serves a notice in the circumstances referred to in subrule (1) (b), the party must apply to the court for directions.pt 1, div 5 (rules 1.22–1.25): Ins 2006 (716), Sch 1 [5].
The party whose case raises a constitutional matter must file an affidavit of service of each notice required to be served under rule 1.23, and must do so promptly after the notice is served.pt 1, div 5 (rules 1.22–1.25): Ins 2006 (716), Sch 1 [5].
The party whose case raises a constitutional matter must provide copies of any other documents that have been filed in the proceedings and that are relevant to the matter to any intervening Attorney-General as soon as practicable after notice of the intervention is given to the party.pt 1, div 5 (rules 1.22–1.25): Ins 2006 (716), Sch 1 [5].
Division 6 Procedure in particular circumstances
pt 1, div 6 (rules 1.26, 1.27): Ins 2008 (338), Sch 1 [1].
1.26 Procedure under particular Acts
(1) The provisions of Schedule 10 apply to proceedings under the Acts referred to in that Schedule.(2) A reference in any such provision to “the Act” is a reference to the Act referred to in the heading beneath which that provision appears.pt 1, div 6 (rules 1.26, 1.27): Ins 2008 (338), Sch 1 [1].
1.27 Procedure in particular District Court lists
The provisions of Schedule 11 apply to proceedings in the District Court that are assigned to the Coal Miners’ Workers Compensation List or the Special Statutory Compensation List.pt 1, div 6 (rules 1.26, 1.27): Ins 2008 (338), Sch 1 [1].
Part 2 Case management generally
2.1 Directions and orders
(cf SCR Part 26, rule 1)
The court may, at any time and from time to time, give such directions and make such orders for the conduct of any proceedings as appear convenient (whether or not inconsistent with these rules or any other rules of court) for the just, quick and cheap disposal of the proceedings.Note—See also the guiding principles in relation to the conduct of court proceedings (set out in Division 1 of Part 6 of the Civil Procedure Act 2005) and the general powers of the court to give directions (set out in Division 2 of that Part).
2.2 Appointment for hearing
(cf SCR Part 26, rule 2)
The court may, at any time and from time to time, of its own motion, appoint a date for a hearing at which it may give or make the directions or orders referred to in rule 2.1.
2.3 Case management by the court
(cf SCR Part 26, rule 3)
Without limiting the generality of rule 2.1, directions and orders may relate to any of the following:(a) the filing of pleadings,(b) the defining of issues, including requiring the parties, or their legal practitioners, to exchange memoranda in order to clarify questions,(c) the provision of any essential particulars,(d) the filing of “Scott Schedules” referred to in rule 15.2,(e) the making of admissions,(f) the filing of lists of documents, either generally or with respect to specific matters,(g) the delivery or exchange of experts’ reports and the holding of conferences of experts,(h) the provision of copies of documents, including their provision in electronic form,(i) the administration and answering of interrogatories, either generally or with respect to specific matters,(j) the service and filing of affidavits, witness statements or other documents to be relied on,(k) the giving of evidence at any hearing, including whether evidence of witnesses in chief must be given orally, or by affidavit or witness statement, or both,(l) the use of telephone or video conference facilities, video tapes, film projection, computer and other equipment and technology,(m) the provision of evidence in support of an application for an adjournment or amendment,(n) a timetable with respect to any matters to be dealt with, including a timetable for the conduct of any hearing,(o) the filing of written submissions.
Part 3 Electronic case management
3.1 Definitions
(1) In this Part:ECM system means an electronic case management system established under section 14B of the Electronic Transactions Act 2000.registered user means a person who is registered as a user of the ECM system under rule 3.3.(2) In this Part, a reference to filing a document in the court includes a reference to any other method of sending a document to the court.
3.2 Application of Part
This Part applies to those courts, and for those purposes, for which the use of an ECM system is authorised by an order in force under section 14C of the Electronic Transactions Act 2000.
3.3 Registration of users
(1) The registrar of the court may register any person as a user of the ECM system in relation to the court, either generally or for particular proceedings, and may specify the level of access to which the person is entitled, and the conditions of use applicable to the person, as a registered user of the system.(2) Subject to any order of the court, a person may not be registered as a user of the ECM system for particular proceedings unless the person is:(a) a party to the proceedings, or(b) a legal practitioner representing a party to the proceedings, or(c) a person authorised to use the ECM system in relation to the proceedings by a legal practitioner representing a party to the proceedings, or(d) a person who, pursuant to rule 4.4 (1) (b) or 4.4 (3), is authorised to sign documents on behalf of a party in proceedings in the Local Court, but only in connection with proceedings and matters in relation to which that paragraph or subrule authorises documents to be so signed.(3) The senior judicial officer of the court may establish a protocol for the registration of persons as users of the ECM system, either generally or for particular proceedings.(4) Such a protocol may provide for the automatic registration of particular classes of persons as users of the ECM system, and for the automatic specification of the level of access to which persons of such a class are entitled and the conditions of use applicable to persons of such a class as registered users of the system.(5) In relation to any proceedings before the court, the level of access to the ECM system to which a registered user is entitled, and the conditions of use applicable to a registered user, are subject to any order of the court.rule 3.3: Am 2009 (166), Sch 1 [1].
3.4 Electronic filing of documents
(1) This rule applies:(a) in relation to proceedings in any court other than the Land and Environment Court, to documents of a kind referred to in Part 1 of Schedule 4, and(b) in relation to proceedings in the Land and Environment Court, to documents of a kind referred to in Part 2 of Schedule 4.(2) In any proceedings, a document so specified may be filed in the court on behalf of a party, by means of the ECM system, by any registered user for the proceedings who is:(a) a person who is authorised by rule 4.4 to sign documents on the party’s behalf, or(b) a person who has been directed to file the document by a person who is so authorised.(2A) When filed by means of the ECM system, a document that is required to be signed by a person is taken:(a) to have been duly signed for the purposes of rule 4.4, andif the person’s name is printed where his or her signature would otherwise appear.(b) to have been duly authenticated for the purposes of section 14E of the Electronic Transactions Act 2000,(3) A document that is filed by means of the ECM system is to be given initial acceptance as soon as it is received by the court, and is to be given final acceptance as soon as it is validated by the court.(4) Without limiting any other ground on which it may be refused, validation is to be refused if any fee payable with respect to the filing of a document is not received by the court within 24 hours after the document’s initial acceptance.(5) A document that is filed by means of the ECM system is taken to have been filed when it is given final acceptance and, when given final acceptance, is taken to have been filed at the time it was given initial acceptance.(6) Notice of the initial and final acceptance of a document, and of the dates of those acceptances, is to be given, by means of the ECM system, to the registered user by whom the document was filed.(7) The date and time at which initial or final acceptance was given must be set out in the notice referred to in subrule (6).rule 3.4: Am 2005 (625), Sch 1 [1]; 2007 (580), Sch 1 [1].
3.4A Written record to be kept of direction to e-file document
(1) A person who directs that a document be filed as referred to in rule 3.4 (2) (b) must make a written record of the fact that he or she has given such a direction.(2) If the person by whom the direction was given is a legal practitioner, the legal practitioner is taken:(a) to have affirmed to the court that he or she has given the direction, and(b) to have undertaken to the court that, if the court so directs, he or she will produce to the court the written record referred to in subrule (1).(2A) If the person by whom the direction was given is a person who, pursuant to rule 4.4 (1) (b) or 4.4 (3), is authorised to sign documents on behalf of a party in proceedings in the Local Court, that person is taken:(a) to have affirmed to the court that he or she has given the direction, and(b) to have undertaken to the court that, if the court so directs, he or she will produce to the court the written record referred to in subrule (1).(2B) If in any proceedings in which a document has been filed as referred to in rule 3.4 (2) (b) the court directs production of the written record referred to in subrule (1), it may also stay the proceedings until the record is produced.(3) A written direction for the purposes of rule 3.4 (2) (b) is taken to be a written record for the purposes of this rule.rule 3.4A: Ins 2005 (625), Sch 1 [2]. Am 2009 (166), Sch 1 [2].
3.5 Filing of affidavits
(1) This rule applies to an affidavit that is filed in the court by means of the ECM system.(2) In the case of an affidavit filed by a legal practitioner, the legal practitioner is taken:(a) to have affirmed to the court that he or she has possession of the original affidavit, and(b) to have undertaken to the court that, if the court so directs, he or she will file the original affidavit in accordance with the court’s directions.(3) In the case of an affidavit filed otherwise than by a legal practitioner, the original affidavit must be filed in the court:(a) if a practice note so requires or the court so directs, and(b) if so required or directed, within the time limited by the relevant practice note or direction.(4) Any document referred to in an affidavit that cannot be filed by means of the ECM system is taken to be an exhibit, and not an annexure, regardless of the terms of the affidavit.
3.6 Filing of wills
(1) This rule applies to a will that is required to be filed in the court together with an application for probate of the will, or for administration of a person’s estate with the will annexed, if the application is, but the will is not, filed by means of the ECM system.(2) A will to which this rule applies must be filed in the court:(a) at least 2 days before the date of the next hearing in the proceedings in which the will is intended to be used, or(b) within 7 days after the date on which the application is filed by means of the ECM system, orwhichever first occurs.(c) within such earlier time as the court may by order direct,(3) If the application is filed by a legal practitioner, the legal practitioner is taken:(a) to have affirmed to the court that he or she has possession of the will, and(b) to have undertaken to the court that, if the court so directs, he or she will file the will in accordance with the court’s directions.
3.7 Electronic issuing of a document
(1) The court may, by means of the ECM system, issue a document to any party who is a registered user for the proceedings.(2) The date and time at which the document was issued must be set out in the document.(3) When issued by means of the ECM system, a document that is required to be signed by a person is taken to have been duly authenticated for the purposes of section 14E of the Electronic Transactions Act 2000 if the person’s name is printed where his or her signature would otherwise appear.rule 3.7: Am 2008 (338), Sch 1 [2].
3.8 Electronic service of a document
A party to any proceedings before the court may use electronic mail to serve a document on any other party to the proceedings, whether by means of the ECM system or otherwise, but only with the consent of the other party.
3.9 Use of ECM system in business conducted in the absence of the public
(1) Any business that, pursuant to section 71 of the Civil Procedure Act 2005, may be conducted in the absence of the public may be conducted by electronic communication sent and received by means of the ECM system, as provided by section 14I of the Electronic Transactions Act 2000.(2) A legal practitioner who is a registered user for any proceedings may participate in any such business:(a) directly (the legal practitioner sends a communication in his or her own name), or(b) indirectly (someone authorised by the legal practitioner sends a communication in the legal practitioner’s name).(3) A legal practitioner who authorises someone else to send a communication, as referred to in subrule (2) (b), is taken to have affirmed to the court that he or she has actual knowledge of the contents of the communication.rule 3.9: Am 2005 (625), Sch 1 [3].
Part 4 Preparation and filing of documents
Division 1 Preparation of documents generally
4.1 Application of Division
This Division applies to and in respect of any document that is prepared by or on behalf of a person (whether or not a party) for use in proceedings.
4.2 Documents to be filed to contain certain information
(cf SCR Part 1, rule 10, Part 7, rule 2, Part 11, rule 4, Part 65, rule 1; DCR Part 5, rule 2; LCR Part 36, rule 7)
(1) Originating process filed on behalf of a party in any proceedings must contain the following information:(a) the name of the court in which the proceedings are to be commenced,(b) if relevant, the division in which the proceedings are intended to be heard,(b1) if relevant, the list in which the proceedings are intended to be entered,(c) the venue at which the proceedings are intended to be heard,(d) the title of the proceedings,(e) the nature of the process (summons or statement of claim),(e1) if the party has engaged a solicitor to act as the party’s legal representative, the name of the solicitor,(f) if the process is filed by a person who is neither the party nor the party’s solicitor or solicitor’s agent, the capacity in which the person acts when filing the document,(g) the party’s address and the party’s address for service,(h) the address, if known, of any defendant.Note—A solicitor named on the originating process pursuant to paragraph (e1) is thereby the solicitor on the record in relation to the party on whose behalf the process is filed.(2) A document filed on behalf of a person in relation to any proceedings (other than originating process) must contain the following information:(a) the title of the proceedings, as appearing on the originating process for the proceedings,(b) if relevant, the division in which the proceedings are intended to be heard,(b1) if relevant, the list in which the proceedings are intended to be entered,(c) the case number for the proceedings, as appearing on the originating process for the proceedings,(d) the nature of the document,(d1) if the person has engaged a solicitor to act as the person’s legal representative, the name of the solicitor,(e) if the document is filed by a person who is neither a party nor a party’s solicitor or solicitor’s agent, the capacity in which the person acts when filing the document,(f) (Repealed)Note 1—In relation to paragraph (c), see rule 9.1 (4) and (5) which require cross-claims to be numbered.Note 2—A solicitor named in the document pursuant to paragraph (d1) is thereby the solicitor on the record in relation to the party on whose behalf the document is filed.(3) The originating process and any such document may also contain the DX address, fax number or electronic mail address of the person, the person’s solicitor or the person’s solicitor’s agent.(3A) Court documentation within the meaning of section 347 (Restrictions on commencing proceedings without reasonable prospects of success) of the Legal Profession Act 2004 that is not required by that section to be certified must include a statement to the effect that it is not required to be so certified.(3B) Subrule (3A) does not apply to documents that are filed in the Land and Environment Court in relation to proceedings in Class 1, 2 or 3 of that Court’s jurisdiction.(4) In this rule, originating process does not include any process (such as a statement of cross-claim or cross-summons) by which a cross-claim is made.rule 4.2: Am 2005 (395), Sch 1 [1]–[4]; 2005 (625), Sch 1 [4]; 2005 (717), Sch 1 [1] [2]; 2006 (391), Sch 1 [2] [3]; 2007 (579), Sch 1 [1] [2]; 2008 (338), Sch 1 [3]; 2008 (494), Sch 1 [1] [2]; 2009 (88), Sch 1 [3] [4].
4.2A List of parties
(1) In any proceedings in which there are more than 2 plaintiffs, or more than 2 defendants, the plaintiff must file, together with the originating process, a list of parties.(2) In any proceedings in which there is a cross-claim brought by more than 2 cross-claimants, or to which there are more than 2 cross-defendants, or against a cross-defendant who is not already a party to the proceedings, the cross-claimant must file with the statement of cross-claim or cross-summons:(a) if no list of parties has yet been filed in the proceedings, a list of parties, or(b) if a list of parties has already been filed in the proceedings, an amended list of parties.(3) In any proceedings in which a list of parties has been filed, any party who files a document that effects a change of parties (including a change that involves the addition of a party who is not already a party to the proceedings) must file, together with the document, an amended list of parties.rule 4.2A: Ins 2007 (579), Sch 1 [3]. Subst 2009 (88), Sch 1 [5].
4.3 Paper and writing
(cf SCR Part 65, rule 2; DCR Part 47, rule 3; LCR Part 36, rule 4)
(1) A document must be on standard A4 paper of durable quality, capable of receiving ink writing.(2) Subject to the rules:(a) a document may be one-sided (that is, with writing on one side of each sheet) or two-sided (that is, with writing on both sides of each sheet), but not partly one-sided and partly two-sided, and(b) the sheets of a document must be securely fastened:(i) if the document is one-sided, at the top left hand corner, orwithout obscuring the writing or the margin, and(ii) it the document is two-sided, along the left hand side,(c) a left margin of at least 25 millimetres, and a top margin of 30 millimetres, must be kept clear on each sheet of a document that bears writing, and(d) the pages of a document (that is, the sides of the sheets that bear writing) must be consecutively numbered.(3) The spacing between the lines of writing in a document must be at least 3 millimetres.(3A) The following information in a document must be set out in bold:(a) the name of the first plaintiff and first defendant in the title of the proceedings,(b) in the case of a cross-claim, the name of the first cross-claimant and first cross-defendant in the title to the proceedings,(c) in the case of a notice of motion, the name of the person affected by the orders sought,(d) in all cases, the name of the person specified in the filing details as the person for whom the document is filed.Note—Rule 4.2 requires the title of proceedings to be included in the originating process or other documents filed on or behalf of a person in proceedings.(4) A document must bear writing that is clear, sharp, legible and permanent, must not be a carbon copy and must not bear any blotting, erasure or alteration that causes material disfigurement.(5) This rule does not apply to a document to the extent to which the nature of the document renders compliance impracticable.rule 4.3: Am 2005 (717), Sch 1 [3]; 2005 (808), Sch 1 [1]; 2007 (579), Sch 1 [4] [5].
4.4 Signing documents
(cf SCR Part 65, rule 8, Part 66, rule 9; DCR Part 47, rule 5; LCR Part 36, rule 6)
(1) If, in any proceedings, a document is required to be signed by a party:(a) in the case of a party who is represented by a solicitor, the document may not be signed by the party but must instead be signed:(i) by the party’s solicitor, or(ii) by a solicitor acting as agent for the party’s solicitor, or(iii) by some other solicitor belonging to or employed by the same firm or organisation as the party’s solicitor or party’s solicitor’s agent, and(b) in the case of a party who is not represented by a solicitor, the document may be signed by the party and may also be signed by any other person who is authorised by these rules to commence proceedings on the party’s behalf.(2) Subrule (1) is subject to the requirements of rule 35.3.(3) Despite subrule (1), a document prepared on behalf of a party in proceedings in the Local Court may instead be signed:(a) by a commercial agent with respect to debt collection (within the meaning of the Commercial Agents and Private Inquiry Agents Act 2004), in relation only to proceedings on an application for:(i) an instalment order, or(ii) an order for examination, or(iii) a writ of execution, or(iv) a garnishee order, or(b) by a person holding a licence as a real estate agent, strata managing agent or on-site residential property manager within the meaning of the Property, Stock and Business Agents Act 2002 in relation only to:(i) proceedings on an application referred to in paragraph (a), or(ii) the filing of a certificate under section 51 of the Consumer, Trader and Tenancy Tribunal Act 2001.rule 4.4: Am 2005 (625), Sch 1 [5] [6]; 2006 (288), Sch 1 [2]; 2006 (716), Sch 1 [6].
4.5 Address for service
(cf SCR Part 9, rule 6; DCR Part 8, rule 8; LCR Part 7, rule 8)
(1) Subject to subrule (2), a person’s address for service is to be the address of a place in New South Wales (other than a DX address):(a) at which documents in the proceedings may be left for the person during ordinary business hours, and(b) to which documents in the proceedings may be posted for the person.(2) The address for service of a person who has a solicitor on the record is to be:(a) the office of the solicitor on the record, or(b) if the solicitor on the record has another solicitor acting as agent, the office of the agent.(3) Despite subrules (1) and (2):(a) the address for service of a defendant who is served with originating process outside New South Wales, but in Australia, may be any address in Australia, whether inside or outside New South Wales, and(b) the address for service of a person who files a notice under section 19 (1) of the Mutual Recognition Act 1992 of the Commonwealth (other than a person who is represented by a solicitor) may be any address in Australia, whether inside or outside New South Wales, and(c) the address for service contained in an application to set aside a subpoena made under section 13 of the Evidence and Procedure (New Zealand) Act 1994 of the Commonwealth (other than a person who is represented by a solicitor) may be:(i) any address in Australia, whether inside or outside New South Wales, or(ii) any address in New Zealand, and(d) the address for service of a person who has entered an appearance under the Service and Execution of Process Act 1992 of the Commonwealth is to be the address for service stated in relation to the appearance.rule 4.5: Am 2009 (88), Sch 1 [6].
4.6 Changing address for service
(cf SCR Part 9, rule 6; DCR Part 8, rule 8; LCR Part 7, rule 8)
(1) A person may change his or her address for service by filing a notice of the change showing his or her new address for service and serving the notice on all other active parties.(2) (Repealed)rule 4.6: Am 2007 (579), Sch 1 [6].
4.7 Numbers
(cf SCR Part 65, rule 4; DCR Part 47, rule 4; LCR Part 36, rule 5)
(1) All dates, sums and other numbers in a document are to be expressed in figures, rather than words.(2) Despite subrule (1):(a) months may be expressed in words, rather than numbers, and(b) if dates are expressed wholly in numbers, they must be expressed in the form DD/MM/YY or DD/MM/YYYY.
4.7A Land descriptions
(1) Unless the court otherwise orders, in any claim or judgment for the possession of land, and in any writ of execution in relation to land, the description of the land must include:(a) a formal description of the land sufficient to identify the land in any document establishing title to the land, together with any appropriate reference to title, and(b) the postal address (if any) of the land.(2) Without limitation, a formal description of land referred to in subrule (1) (a) may be given:(a) in the case of land under the provisions of the Real Property Act 1900 that comprises the whole of the land referred to in one or more folios of the register under that Act, by reference to the relevant folio identifiers, or(b) in the case of any land (including land referred to in paragraph (a)), by reference to:(i) a registered plan (within the meaning of the Conveyancing Act 1919), or(ii) a formal land survey plan (within the meaning of the Surveying Act 2002), or(iii) a metes and bounds description prepared by a registered land surveyor (within the meaning of the Surveying Act 2002).rule 4.7A: Ins 2006 (716), Sch 1 [7].
4.8 Separate documents for separate process
Separate process (such as a defence and a statement of cross-claim or a cross-summons, or a reply and a defence to a statement of cross-claim) are to be dealt with in separate documents.
4.9 Delegation by Protective Commissioner
(cf SCR Part 63, rule 16)
(1) If, in connection with any proceedings involving a person under legal incapacity, a delegate under section 5A of the Protected Estates Act 1983 signs a document in the exercise of a function delegated under that section, the delegate must include in the document a statement:(a) of the delegate’s name and position, and(b) that the document is signed in exercise of a function delegated under that section, and(c) if the delegate has not previously signed such a document in the proceedings, as to whether or not he or she has an interest in the proceedings adverse to that of the person under legal incapacity.(2) On request by the court, the registrar or any party to the proceedings, the delegate must furnish to the person making the request a photocopy of the delegation, certified by the delegate as being a true copy.
Division 2 Filing of documents
4.10 Filing generally
(cf SCR Part 1, rule 9A)
(1) A person may lodge a document for filing in relation to any proceedings:(a) by delivering it to an officer of the court in the registry, or(b) by sending it by post to the registry’s business address, or(c) by sending it to the registry’s DX address.(2) Any person may lodge a document with an officer of the court for the purpose of its being filed in relation to proceedings, or proposed proceedings, in the court.(3) Unless acceptance of the document is subsequently refused by the court or by an officer of the court, a document is taken to have been filed when it is lodged for filing.(4) The court may refuse to accept a document for filing whether or not an officer of the court has accepted the document for filing.(5) An officer of the court may refuse to accept a document for filing in the following circumstances:(a) in the case of originating process:(i) if the location specified in the document as the venue at which the proceedings are to be heard is a location at which the court does not sit, or(ii) if the person on whose behalf the originating process is sought to be filed is the subject of an order of the Supreme Court declaring the person to be a vexatious litigant,(b) in the case of a document for which a filing fee is payable, if the fee has not been paid or arrangements satisfactory to the officer of the court have not been made for its payment.Note—See also rule 3.4 in relation to the electronic filing of documents.
4.11 Case number or other unique identifier to be assigned to originating process
(cf SCR Part 1, rule 10; DCR Part 5, rule 3; LCR Part 5, rule 3)
(1) When originating process is accepted for filing, a case number or other unique identifier is to be assigned to the proceedings commenced by the process.(2) On accepting originating process for filing, an officer of the court must endorse on the process the case number or other unique identifier assigned to the proceedings commenced by the process.
4.12 Lodgment of additional copies of originating process for service
(cf SCR Part 7, rule 6; DCR Part 5, rule 3; LCR Part 5, rule 3)
(1) When filing originating process, a person may lodge additional copies for sealing.(2) On receiving such copies, an officer of the court:(a) must seal with the court’s seal a sufficient number of copies of the process for service on the other parties, and(b) if the process was filed by post or by use of an authorised DX system, must forward the sealed copies to the lodging party.(3) This rule does not apply in relation to originating process that is filed by means of an electronic case management system referred to in Part 3.
4.13 Place for filing
(1) Subject to Part 3, a document (other than originating process) that is filed in relation to any proceedings must be filed:(a) subject to paragraphs (b) and (c), in the same registry as that in which the originating process was filed, or(b) if the proceedings have been transferred to another court, in the registry for that other court, or(c) if the court has ordered that documents are to be filed in some other registry, in that other registry.(2) In this rule, originating process does not include any process (such as a statement of cross-claim or cross-summons) by which a cross-claim is made.rule 4.13: Am 2005 (395), Sch 1 [5]. Subst 2005 (625), Sch 1 [7].
4.14 Filing of notices on behalf of multiple parties
(cf SCR Part 11, rule 3)
Two or more persons filing the same notice of appearance, notice of motion or other notice in the same proceedings, by the same solicitor and on the same day, may do so by a single notice.
4.15 Court’s power to deal with scandalous matter in documents
(cf SCR Part 38, rule 8, Part 65, rule 5; DCR Part 30, rule 8, Part 47, rule 7; LCR Part 25, rule 8, Part 36, rule 8)
(1) If any matter contained in a document on the court file is scandalous, frivolous, vexatious, irrelevant or oppressive, the court may order:(a) that the matter to be struck out of the document, or(b) that the document be placed in a sealed envelope on the court file, or(c) that the document be taken off the court file.(2) A sealed envelope referred to in subrule (1) (b) may not be opened except by order of the court.
4.16 Court to be advised as to subrogation to corporation
A person, when paying a filing fee, must advise the court if the proceedings to which the fee relates are being carried on by a corporation in the name of a natural person pursuant to a right of subrogation.rule 4.16: Ins 2007 (164), Sch 1 [1].
Part 5 Preliminary discovery and inspection
In this Part:applicant means an applicant for an order under this Part.identity or whereabouts includes the name and (as applicable) the place of residence, registered office, place of business or other whereabouts, and the occupation and sex, of the person against whom the applicant desires to bring proceedings, and also whether that person is an individual or a corporation.rule 5.1: Am 2005 (395), Sch 1 [6].
5.2 Discovery to ascertain prospective defendant’s identity or whereabouts
(cf Federal Court Rules, Order 15A, rules 3, 5 and 9)
(1) This rule applies if it appears to the court that:(a) the applicant, having made reasonable inquiries, is unable to sufficiently ascertain the identity or whereabouts of a person (the person concerned) for the purpose of commencing proceedings against the person, and(b) some person other than the applicant (the other person) may have information, or may have or have had possession of a document or thing, that tends to assist in ascertaining the identity or whereabouts of the person concerned.(2) The court may make either or both of the following orders against the other person:(a) an order that the other person attend the court to be examined as to the identity or whereabouts of the person concerned,(b) an order that the other person must give discovery to the applicant of all documents that are or have been in the other person’s possession and that relate to the identity or whereabouts of the person concerned.(3) A court that makes an order for examination under subrule (2) (a) may also make either or both of the following orders:(a) an order that the other person must produce to the court on the examination any document or thing that is in the other person’s possession and that relates to the identity or whereabouts of the person concerned,(b) an order that the examination be held before a registrar.(4) An order under this rule with respect to any information, document or thing held by a corporation may be addressed to any appropriate officer or former officer of the corporation.(5) A person need not comply with the requirements of an order under subrule (2) (a) unless conduct money has been handed or tendered to the person a reasonable time before the date on which attendance is required.(6) If the other person incurs expense or loss in complying with an order under subrule (2) (a), and the expense or loss exceeds the amount paid to the person under subrule (5), the court may order the applicant to pay to that person an amount sufficient to make good the expense or loss.(7) Unless the court orders otherwise, an application for an order under this rule:(a) must be supported by an affidavit stating the facts on which the applicant relies and specifying the kinds of information, documents or things in respect of which the order is sought, and(b) must, together with a copy of the supporting affidavit, be served personally on the other person.(8) An application for an order under this rule is to be made:(a) if it is made in relation to proceedings in which the applicant is a party, by notice of motion in the proceedings, or(b) in any other case, by summons.(9) This rule applies, with any necessary modification, where the applicant, being a party to proceedings, wishes to claim or cross-claim against a person who is not a party to the proceedings.rule 5.2: Am 2005 (395), Sch 1 [7].
5.3 Discovery of documents from prospective defendant
(cf Federal Court Rules, Order 15A, rules 6, 7 and 9)
(1) If it appears to the court that:(a) the applicant may be entitled to make a claim for relief from the court against a person (the prospective defendant) but, having made reasonable inquiries, is unable to obtain sufficient information to decide whether or not to commence proceedings against the prospective defendant, and(b) the prospective defendant may have or have had possession of a document or thing that can assist in determining whether or not the applicant is entitled to make such a claim for relief, andthe court may order that the prospective defendant must give discovery to the applicant of all documents that are or have been in the person’s possession and that relate to the question of whether or not the applicant is entitled to make a claim for relief.(c) inspection of such a document would assist the applicant to make the decision concerned,(2) An order under this rule with respect to any document held by a corporation may be addressed to any officer or former officer of the corporation.(3) Unless the court orders otherwise, an application for an order under this rule:(a) must be supported by an affidavit stating the facts on which the applicant relies and specifying the kinds of documents in respect of which the order is sought, and(b) must, together with a copy of the supporting affidavit, be served personally on the person to whom it is addressed.(4) This rule applies, with any necessary modification, where the applicant, being a party to proceedings, wishes to decide whether or not to claim or cross-claim against a person who is not a party to the proceedings.rule 5.3: Am 2005 (395), Sch 1 [8].
(1) The court may order that a person who is not a party to proceedings, but in respect of whom it appears to the court that the person may have or have had possession of a document that relates to any question in the proceedings, must give discovery to the applicant of all documents that are or have been in the person’s possession and that relate to that question.(2) Unless the court orders otherwise, an application for an order under this rule:(a) must be supported by an affidavit stating the facts on which the applicant relies and specifying the kinds of documents in respect of which the order is sought, and(b) must, together with a copy of the supporting affidavit, be served personally on the person to whom it is addressed.rule 5.4: Am 2005 (395), Sch 1 [9].
Division 1 of Part 21 applies to and in respect of the discovery and inspection of documents the subject of an order for discovery under this Part in the same way as it applies to the discovery and inspection of documents the subject of an order for discovery under that Division.Note—See also rule 23.8 with respect to inspection of property.rule 5.5: Am 2005 (395), Sch 1 [10].
An order under this Part may be made subject to a condition requiring the applicant to give security for the costs of the person against whom the order is made.rule 5.6: Am 2005 (395), Sch 1 [11].
An order under this Part does not operate so as to require the person against whom it is made to produce any privileged document that the person could not be required to produce:(a) if the applicant had commenced proceedings against that person, or(b) if that person had otherwise become a party to proceedings to which the applicant is a party, or(c) if the person had been served with a subpoena for production of the document in proceedings to which the applicant is a party.rule 5.7: Am 2005 (395), Sch 1 [12].
5.8 Costs and other expenses
(cf SCR Part 52A, rule 26; DCR Part 39A, rule 5; Federal Court Rules, Order 15A, rules 4 and 11)
(1) On any application for an order under this Part, the court may make orders for the costs of the applicant, of the person against whom the order is made or sought and of any other party to the proceedings.(2) The costs in respect of which such an order may be made include:(a) payment of conduct money, and(b) payments made on account of any expense or loss in relation to the proceedings, and(c) the costs of making and serving any list of documents, and(d) the costs of producing any documents for inspection, and(e) the costs of otherwise complying with the requirements of any order under Division 1 of Part 21, as applying to the discovery and inspection of documents the subject of an order for discovery under this Part.rule 5.8: Am 2005 (395), Sch 1 [13].
Part 6 Commencing proceedings and appearance
Division 1 General
6.1 No step without originating process or notice of appearance
(cf SCR Part 11, rule 2)
(1) Except by leave of the court, a party may not take any step in proceedings (including any appearance in court) unless the party has filed a statement of claim or summons in the proceedings or has entered an appearance in the proceedings.(2) Subrule (1) does not apply to:(a) a defendant who applies for an order under rule 12.11 (Setting aside originating process etc), or(b) a plaintiff who applies for an order under rule 25.2 (Order in urgent case before commencement of proceedings), or(c) a defendant who makes an application in relation to the setting aside or enforcement of any judgment.(3) In any proceedings, a person (not being a party and not having filed a notice of motion) may not take any step in the proceedings (including any appearance in court) unless he or she has filed a notice of address for service.rule 6.1: Am 2005 (625), Sch 1 [8]; 2006 (96), Sch 1 [1]–[3].
6.1A Proceedings that do not require a defendant
(cf SCR Part 58, rule 1, Part 70, rule 11, Part 73, rule 4 and Schedule J)
Unless the court otherwise orders, proceedings that may be commenced without joining any person as a defendant include the following:(a) proceedings under the Adoption Act 2000,(b) proceedings under section 33 of the Evidence on Commission Act 1995,(c) proceedings under the Jury Act 1977,(d) proceedings under section 17 of the Witness Protection Act 1995,(e) proceedings under rule 55.9.rule 6.1A: Ins 2007 (501), Sch 1 [1].
Division 2 Originating process
6.2 How proceedings commenced
(cf SCR Part 4, rules 1 and 3, Part 7, rule 7; DCR Part 5, rules 5 and 6; LCR Part 5, rule 1)
(1) Subject to these rules, the practice notes and any other rules of court, a person may commence proceedings in the court by filing a statement of claim or a summons.(2) Subject to these rules, the practice notes and any other Act or law, the plaintiff may choose whether to commence proceedings by statement of claim or by summons.(3) Originating process must be served on each defendant.(4) Subject to subrule (5), originating process is valid for service:(a) in the case of proceedings in the Supreme Court, the Dust Diseases Tribunal or the Local Court, for 6 months after the date on which it is filed, or(b) in the case of proceedings in the District Court:(i) except as provided by subparagraph (ii), for one month after the date on which it is filed, or(ii) if the defendant (or at least one of the defendants) is to be served outside New South Wales, for 6 months after the date on which it is filed.(5) Failure to serve originating process within the time limited by these rules does not prevent the plaintiff from commencing fresh proceedings by filing another originating process.rule 6.2: Am 2005 No 22, Sch 3 [2].
6.3 Where statement of claim required
(cf SCR Part 4, rule 2)
Proceedings of the following kinds must be commenced by statement of claim:(a) proceedings on a claim for relief in relation to a debt or other liquidated claim,(b) proceedings on a claim for relief in relation to a tort,(c) proceedings on a claim based on an allegation of fraud,(d) proceedings on a claim for damages for breach of duty (however arising) and the damages claimed consist of or include:(i) damages in respect of the death of any person, or(ii) damages in respect of personal injuries to any person, or(iii) damages in respect of damage to any property,(e) proceedings on a claim for relief in relation to a trust, other than an express trust wholly in writing,(f) proceedings on a claim for possession of land,(g) proceedings on a claim for relief under the Property (Relationships) Act 1984,(h) proceedings on a claim for relief in relation to the publication of defamatory matter.rule 6.3: Am 2005 (807), Sch 1 [2].
6.4 Where summons required
(cf SCR Part 4, rules 2, 2A and 3)
(1) Proceedings of the following kinds must be commenced by summons:(a) proceedings in which there is no defendant,(b) proceedings on an appeal or application for leave to appeal, other than proceedings assigned to the Court of Appeal,(c) proceedings for preliminary discovery or inspection under Part 5,(d) proceedings on a stated case,(e) proceedings on an application for approval under section 75 of the Civil Procedure Act 2005 of an agreement for the compromise or settlement of a claim,(f) proceedings on an application for a transfer order under Part 9 of the Civil Procedure Act 2005,(g) proceedings on an application for the removal or transfer of proceedings to the court under any Act, other than an application for a transfer order under Part 9 of the Civil Procedure Act 2005,(h) proceedings (other than proceedings on a claim for damages) on any application made under any Act (other than the Civil Procedure Act 2005),(i) proceedings on an application to the court under any Act, other than:(i) proceedings on an application under the Supreme Court Act 1970, the District Court Act 1973 or the Local Court Act 2007, and(ii) proceedings on an application that may properly be made in existing proceedings,(j) any other proceedings that, pursuant to these rules or any other rules of court, are required to be commenced by summons.(2) Proceedings of the following kinds may be commenced by summons, except where the application is made in proceedings that have been commenced in the court:(a) proceedings on an application for a writ of habeas corpus ad subjiciendum,(b) proceedings on an application for an order for the custody of a minor,(c) proceedings on an application for an order for the appointment of a tutor of a person under legal incapacity,(d) proceedings on an application for a declaration of right,(e) proceedings on an application for an injunction,(f) proceedings on an application for the appointment of a receiver,(g) proceedings on an application for an order for the detention, custody or preservation of property,(h) proceedings on a claim for relief for trespass to land.Note—If proceedings have already been commenced, the application should be made by motion: see rule 18.1.(3) Proceedings in the Supreme Court that the plaintiff intends to be entered in the Commercial List or the Technology and Construction List are to be commenced by summons.(4) Proceedings:(a) in which the sole or principal question at issue is, or is likely to be, one of:(i) the construction of an Act or a Commonwealth Act, or(ii) the construction of an instrument made under an Act or a Commonwealth Act, or(iii) the construction of a deed, will, contract or other document, or(iv) some other question of law, orare amongst those which are appropriate to be commenced by summons unless the plaintiff considers the proceedings more appropriate to be commenced by statement of claim.(b) in which there is unlikely to be a substantial dispute of fact,rule 6.4: Am 2005 (395), Sch 1 [14]–[18]; 2007 (579), Sch 2 [2]; 2008 (494), Sch 1 [3].
6.5 Proceedings wrongly commenced by statement of claim
(cf SCR Part 4, rule 2B)
(1) Proceedings that have been commenced by statement of claim when they should have been commenced by summons are nevertheless, and for all purposes, taken to have been duly commenced as from the date of the filing of the statement of claim, and may be continued accordingly.(2) Despite subrule (1), the court may order the proceedings to be continued, as if they had been commenced by summons and as if any pleadings filed in the proceedings had been filed as affidavits, and may also make such orders as it thinks fit for the future conduct of the proceedings.
6.6 Proceedings wrongly commenced by summons
(cf SCR Part 5, rule 11)
(1) Proceedings that have been commenced by summons when they should have been commenced by statement of claim are nevertheless, and for all purposes, taken to have been duly commenced as from the date of the filing of the summons.(2) Despite subrule (1), the court may order that the proceedings continue on pleadings.(3) On or after making such an order, the court:(a) may order that any affidavits stand as pleadings, or(b) may make orders for the filing of a statement of claim or other pleadings.(4) After a statement of claim is filed pursuant to an order referred to in subrule (3) (b), the proceedings are to continue, subject to any other order of the court, as if commenced by statement of claim.
6.7 Determination
(cf SCR Part 5, rule 8)
The court may, on the first or any later day of hearing:(a) hear and determine the proceedings or any claim in the proceedings, and(b) make such order or give such judgment as the nature of the case requires.
6.8 Originating process for recovery of land to be served on occupier
(cf SCR Part 7, rule 8)
(1) If, when proceedings for possession of land are commenced, a person (the occupier) not joined as a defendant is in occupation of the whole or any part of the land, the plaintiff:(a) must state in the originating process that the plaintiff does not seek to disturb the occupier’s occupation of the land, or(b) must serve the originating process on the occupier together with a notice to the effect that:(i) the occupier may apply to the court for an order that the occupier be added as a defendant, and(ii) if the occupier does not so apply within 10 days after service, the occupier may be evicted under a judgment entered in the occupier’s absence.(2) For the purposes of subrule (1), documents may be served on the occupier personally or by leaving the documents on the land concerned addressed to the occupier by name or addressed simply “to the occupier”.(3) If originating process is amended by the addition of a claim for possession of land, the time at which proceedings for possession of that land are commenced is taken, for the purposes of subrule (1), to be the time at which the amendment is made.
Division 3 Defendant to proceedings to enter appearance
6.9 How appearance entered
(cf SCR Part 11, rule 3)
(1) A defendant may enter an appearance in proceedings by filing a notice of appearance.(2) A defendant who files a defence in proceedings is taken to have entered an appearance in the proceedings.Note—Appearance may be withdrawn: see rule 12.5.
6.10 Time for appearance
(cf SCR Part 7, rule 5, Part 11, rule 6)
(1) For the purposes of these rules, the time limited for a defendant to enter an appearance (whether by filing a notice of appearance in accordance with this Division or by filing a defence in accordance with Division 4) is:(a) in the case of proceedings commenced by statement of claim:(i) 28 days after service on the defendant of the statement of claim or such other time as the court directs for the filing of a defence, orwhichever is the later, or(ii) if the defendant makes an unsuccessful application to have the statement of claim set aside, 7 days after the refusal of the application,(b) in the case of proceedings commenced by summons:(i) on or before the return day stated in the summons, orwhichever is the later.(ii) if the defendant makes an unsuccessful application to have the summons set aside, 7 days after the refusal of the application,(2) A reference in subrule (1) (b) to a summons extends, in relation to the Land and Environment Court, to an application that, in accordance with the rules of that Court, commences proceedings in Class 1, 2 or 3 of that Court’s jurisdiction.rule 6.10: Am 2007 (580), Sch 1 [2].
6.11 Defendant may submit to judgment by notice of appearance
(cf SCR Part 11, rule 4 (3), (4) and (5))
(1) A defendant who intends to take no active part in proceedings may include in the defendant’s notice of appearance a statement to the effect that the defendant submits to the making of all orders sought and the giving or entry of judgment in respect of all claims made, to which may be added the words “, save as to costs”.(2) Except by leave of the court, a defendant who has filed a notice of appearance containing a statement referred to in subrule (1) may not file a defence or affidavit or take any other step in the proceedings.Note—See rule 20.34 which allows the defendant in proceedings on a liquidated claim to file a statement acknowledging the whole of the amount of the claim.
Division 4 Contents of statement of claim and summons
6.12 Relief claimed
(cf SCR Part 7, rule 1; DCR Part 5, rules 6 and 6A; LCR Part 5, rules 1 and 2)
(1) A statement of claim or summons must specifically state the relief claimed by the plaintiff.(2) If the relief claimed requires the determination or direction of the court on any question, the statement of claim or summons must state the question.(3) Costs referred to in section 329 (1) (c) of the Legal Profession Act 2004 (costs payable for the enforcement of a lump sum debt or liquidated sum for damages) must be specifically claimed.(4) Costs, other than those referred to in section 329 (1) (c) of the Legal Profession Act 2004, need not be specifically claimed.(5) Exemplary damages and aggravated compensatory damages must be specifically claimed.(6) An order for interest up to judgment must be specifically claimed.(7) In the case of a liquidated claim, a claim for an order for interest up to judgment:(a) must specify the period or periods for which interest is claimed, and(b) may specify the rate or rates at which interest is claimed.(8) If no rate of interest is specified under subrule (7) (b), the rate at which interest is claimed is taken to be the relevant rate of interest prescribed by Schedule 5 for the purposes of section 101 of the Civil Procedure Act 2005.Note—See Part 46 as to the additional matters to be included in a summons relating to an appeal.rule 6.12: Am 2006 (716), Sch 1 [8].
6.13 Notice to defendant in statement of claim
(cf SCR Part 7, rule 3)
A statement of claim:(a) must state that, unless a defence is filed in the registry, the proceedings may result in a judgment or order against the defendant, and(b) must give the address of the registry where the statement of claim is filed (which will consequently be the address where any further pleadings and other documents are to be filed), and(c) must specify the time limited by these rules for filing a defence.Note—See rule 6.8 in relation to claims for the possession of land.
6.14 Notice to defendant in summons
(cf SCR Part 7, rule 3)
A summons filed in proceedings in which there is a defendant:(a) must state that:(i) the proceedings may be heard, andunless there is attendance before the court by the defendant or his or her barrister or solicitor at the time and place stated in the summons, and(ii) the defendant is liable to suffer judgment or an order against the defendant,(b) must further state that, before any such attendance, the defendant must file a notice of appearance in the registry, and(c) must give the address of the registry at the place named as the place for attendance.
6.15 Summons to specify return day
(cf SCR Part 5, rule 3)
(1) A summons must state a return day.(2) The return day may be fixed by the court or, if not fixed by the court, is to be obtained from the registry.(3) If there is a defendant, the summons is to be served on the defendant not less than 5 days before the return day unless the court orders otherwise.(4) A summons is to bear a note stating the terms of any order made under subrule (3).(5) If a return day is obtained from the registry and the summons is to be served outside New South Wales, the return day is to be not less than one month after the date of filing of the summons.
6.16 Alteration of return day in summons
(cf SCR Part 5, rule 5A)
The court may, by notice given to the parties by telephone or otherwise, postpone the return day for a summons to a later day, and may authorise the parties’ solicitors to make corresponding alterations to the copies of the summonses held by them.
6.17 Payment towards liquidated claim stays proceedings on claim
(cf SCR Part 7, rule 4; DCR Part 14, rule 2; LCR Part 12, rule 2)
(1) This rule applies to proceedings in which the plaintiff makes a liquidated claim, but makes no claim of any other kind.(2) The defendant in any such proceedings may, within the time limited for appearance, pay to the plaintiff the sum of:(a) the amount claimed (other than costs), including any interest claimed, and(b) an amount for costs equal to the amount fixed in relation to such a claim by the regulations under the Legal Profession Act 2004, and(c) if the amount so fixed does not include the fee paid on filing the originating process, an amount equal to that fee.(3) Having made such a payment, the defendant may file a notice of payment.(4) The filing of a notice of payment operates as a permanent stay of the proceedings unless the court orders otherwise.(5) A statement of claim commencing proceedings to which this rule applies must bear a note to the effect of this rule and must specify the amounts for costs referred to in subrule (2) (b) and (c).rule 6.17: Am 2006 (716), Sch 1 [9].
Division 5 Joinder of causes of action and joinder of parties
6.18 Joinder of causes of action
(cf SCR Part 8, rule 1; DCR Part 7, rule 1; LCR Part 6, rule 1)
(1) In any originating process, the plaintiff may claim relief against the defendant in respect of more than one cause of action in any of the following circumstances:(a) if the plaintiff sues in the same capacity, and claims the defendant to be liable in the same capacity, in respect of each cause of action,(b) if the plaintiff sues:(i) in his or her capacity as executor of the will of a deceased person, or administrator of the estate of a deceased person, in respect of one or more of the causes of action, and(ii) in his or her personal capacity, but with reference to the estate of the same deceased person, in respect of the remaining causes of action,(c) if the plaintiff claims the defendant to be liable:(i) in his or her capacity as executor of the will of a deceased person, or administrator of the estate of a deceased person, in respect of one or more of the causes of action, and(ii) in his or her personal capacity, and in relation to the estate of the same deceased person, in respect of the remaining causes of action,(d) if the court grants leave for all of the causes of action to be dealt with in the same proceedings.(2) Leave under subrule (1) may be granted before or after the originating process is filed.
6.19 Proceedings involving common questions of law or fact
(cf SCR Part 8, rule 2; DCR Part 7, rule 2; LCR Part 6, rule 2)
(1) Two or more persons may be joined as plaintiffs or defendants in any originating process if:(a) separate proceedings by or against each of them would give rise to a common question of law or fact, andor if the court gives leave for them to be joined.(b) all rights of relief claimed in the originating process are in respect of, or arise out of, the same transaction or series of transactions,(2) Leave under subrule (1) may be granted before or after the originating process is filed.
6.20 Proceedings affecting persons having joint entitlement
(cf SCR Part 8, rules 3 and 4; DCR Part 7, rules 3 and 4; LCR Part 6, rules 3 and 4)
(1) Unless the court orders otherwise, all persons jointly entitled to the same relief must be joined as parties in any claim for that relief that is made by any one or more of them.(2) Unless the court orders otherwise, any other such person is to be joined:(a) as a plaintiff, if he or she consents to being a plaintiff, or(b) as a defendant, if he or she does not consent to being a plaintiff.(3) Despite subrule (1), a person may not be joined as a party to proceedings in contravention of any other Act or law.Note—See, for example, section 62 of the Bankruptcy Act 1966 of the Commonwealth.
6.21 Proceedings affecting persons having joint or several liability
(cf SCR Part 8, rule 5; DCR Part 7, rule 5; LCR Part 6, rule 5)
(1) A person who is jointly and severally liable with some other person in relation to any act, matter or thing need not be a defendant in proceedings with respect to that act, matter or thing merely because the other person is a defendant in those proceedings.(2) In any proceedings in which a defendant is one of a number of persons who are jointly, but not severally, liable in contract or tort, or under an Act or statutory instrument, the court may order that the other persons be joined as defendants and that the proceedings be stayed until those other persons have been so joined.
6.22 Court may order separate trials if joinder of party or cause of action inconvenient
(cf SCR Part 8, rule 6; DCR Part 7, rule 6; LCR Part 6, rule 6)
If the court considers that the joinder of parties or causes of action in any proceedings may embarrass, inconvenience or delay the conduct of the proceedings, the court:(a) may order separate trials, or(b) may make such other order as it thinks fit.
6.23 Effect of misjoinder or non-joinder of parties
(cf SCR Part 8, rule 7 (1); DCR Part 7, rule 7 (1); LCR Part 6, rule 7 (1))
Proceedings are not defeated merely because of the misjoinder or non-joinder of any person as a party to the proceedings.
6.24 Court may join party if joinder proper or necessary
(cf SCR Part 8, rule 8 (1); DCR Part 7, rule 8 (1); LCR Part 6, rule 8 (1))
(1) If the court considers that a person ought to have been joined as a party, or is a person whose joinder as a party is necessary to the determination of all matters in dispute in any proceedings, the court may order that the person be joined as a party.(2) Without limiting subrule (1), in proceedings for the possession of land, the court may order that a person (not being a party to the proceedings) who is in possession of the whole or any part of the land (whether in person or by a tenant) be added as a defendant.
6.25 Joinder as plaintiff requires party’s consent
(cf SCR Part 8, rule 8 (2); DCR Part 7, rule 8 (2); LCR Part 6, rule 8 (2))
A person is not to be joined as a plaintiff in any proceedings except with his or her consent.
6.26 Joinder to recover costs
(cf SCR Part 52A, rule 4 (3) and (4))
(1) Except to the extent to which these rules expressly provide, a party may not join another person as a party to any proceedings for the purpose of making an application for costs against the other person.(2) This rule does not apply:(a) if the other person would otherwise be a proper party to the proceedings, or(b) if the party joins the other person by means of a cross-claim in respect of a claim for costs against the party.
6.27 Joinder on application of third party
(cf SCR Part 8, rule 8; DCR Part 7, rule 8; LCR Part 6, rule 8)
A person who is not a party may apply to the court to be joined as a party, either as a plaintiff or defendant.
6.28 Date of commencement of proceedings in relation to parties joined
(cf SCR Part 8, rule 11 (3) and (4); DCR Part 7, rule 11 (3); LCR Part 6, rule 11 (3))
If the court orders that a person be joined as a party, the date of commencement of the proceedings, in relation to that person, is taken to be the date on which the order is made or such later date as the court may specify in the order.
Division 6 Removal of parties
6.29 Removal of parties by order
(cf SCR Part 8, rule 9; DCR Part 7, rule 9; LCR Part 6, rule 9)
The court may order that a person:(a) who has been improperly or unnecessarily joined, orbe removed as a party.(b) who has ceased to be a proper or necessary party,
6.30 Effect of certain changes on proceedings
(cf SCR Part 8, rule 10; DCR Part 7, rule 10; LCR Part 6, rule 10)
(1) Proceedings do not abate as a result of a party’s death or bankruptcy if a cause of action in the proceedings survives.(2) If a cause of action survives, and the interest or liability of a party to any proceedings passes from the party to some other person, the court may make such orders as it thinks fit for the joinder, removal or re-arrangement of parties.(3) Without limiting subrule (2), if a party to an application under section 20 of the Property (Relationships) Act 1984 dies, the court may order the substitution of the legal representative, as mentioned in section 24 (1) of that Act, as a party to the application.rule 6.30: Am 2006 (96), Sch 1 [4].
6.31 Court may dismiss proceedings not prosecuted following death of party
(cf SCR Part 8, rule 12; DCR Part 7, rule 12; LCR Part 6, rule 12)
(1) This rule applies to any proceedings in which:(a) a party dies, but a cause of action in the proceedings survives his or her death, and(b) an order for the joinder of a party to replace the deceased party is not made within 3 months after the death.(2) The court may order that, unless an application to join a party to replace the deceased party is made within a specified time, the proceedings in relation to the cause of action concerned be dismissed.(3) An application for such an order may be made by any person to whom the deceased party’s liability in relation to the cause of action concerned has passed (whether or not a party to the proceedings).(4) On making an order under this rule, the court may give such directions as it thinks fit for service of the order on any person (whether or not a party to the proceedings) who is interested in continuing the proceedings.
Division 7 Orders as to future conduct of proceedings
6.32 Orders as to the future conduct of proceedings
(cf SCR Part 8, rule 11; DCR Part 7, rule 11; LCR Part 6, rule 11)
(1) If in any proceedings the court makes an order under Division 5 or 6, it may also make such orders as it thinks fit for the future conduct of the proceedings, including orders with respect to the following:(a) the service of the order, and other documents,(b) the amendment of documents,(c) the entering of an appearance, or the filing of a defence, by persons who are joined as defendants,(d) the substitution of one party for another party or former party.(2) If the court orders the substitution of one party for another party or former party, all things previously done in the proceedings have the same effect in relation to the new party as they had in relation to the old, subject to any other order by the court.Note—See rule 6.28 as to when proceedings are taken to have commenced in relation to a new party.
Division 8 Referred questions of law and stated cases
pt 6, div 8: Ins 2007 (164), Sch 1 [2].
6.33 Definitions
(1) In this Division:original proceedings, in relation to a referred question of law or stated case, means the proceedings (if any) in which the question or case has arisen.referred matter means a question of law or stated case that has been referred to the Supreme Court for determination.referring body means the court or other authority by which a question of law or stated case is referred to the Supreme Court for determination.(2) A reference in this Division to the Supreme Court includes a reference to the Court of Appeal where the proceedings concerned are assigned to or in the Court of Appeal.rules 6.33: Ins 2007 (164), Sch 1 [2]. Am 2008 (338), Sch 1 [4].
6.34 Application of Division
This Division applies to proceedings in the Supreme Court for an order with respect to a referred matter under a legislative provision, including (but not limited to) the following provisions:Administrative Decisions Tribunal Act 1997, section 79A, 118 or 118D,Constitution Further Amendment (Referendum) Act 1930, section 28,Consumer, Trader and Tenancy Tribunal Act 2001, section 66,Powers of Attorney Act 2003, section 39,Real Property Act 1900, section 123 or 124,Note—This Division also applies by force of rules 12.1A and 15.1 of the Supreme Court (Corporations) Rules 1999 to questions referred to the Supreme Court under the following Commonwealth legislation:Corporations Act 2001, section 659A.rule 6.34: Ins 2007 (164), Sch 1 [2]. Subst 2008 (338), Sch 1 [5]. Am 2009 (88), Sch 1 [7].
6.35 Originating process
(1) (Repealed)(2) The originating process:(a) in the case of proceedings to which the Supreme Court (Corporations) Rules 1999 apply, must be in the form of the originating process prescribed by rule 2.2 of those rules, and(b) in any other case, must be in the form of a summons.(3) The referred matter:(a) must be in the form of a special case, and(b) must be filed with the originating process.(4) The originating process must join as defendants (or as respondents where the proceedings are in the Court of Appeal):(a) if the referred matter has arisen in original proceedings, all of the parties to the original proceedings, or(b) in any other case, all of the persons who may be directly affected by the Supreme Court’s determination of the referred matter.(5) In the case of proceedings under section 123 of the Real Property Act 1900, the originating process must also join the Registrar-General as a defendant.(6) The Supreme Court may order that such other persons as it considers appropriate be joined as defendants (or as respondents where the proceedings are in the Court of Appeal).rule 6.35: Ins 2007 (164), Sch 1 [2]. Am 2008 (338), Sch 1 [6] [7].
A special case:(a) must be divided into consecutively numbered paragraphs, and(b) must state concisely the questions to be decided and the facts from which those questions arise, and(c) must annex all documents necessary to enable the Supreme Court to decide those questions.rules 6.36–6.38: Ins 2007 (164), Sch 1 [2].
(1) In the case of a referred matter that has arisen in original proceedings, a special case:(a) must be prepared in draft by the party having the conduct of the original proceedings in consultation with the other parties to those proceedings, andunless the referring body otherwise directs.(b) must be settled by the referring body,(2) In the case of a referred matter that has arisen otherwise than in original proceedings, a special case must be prepared:(a) in the case of proceedings under section 123 of the Real Property Act 1900, by the applicant referred to in that section, or(b) in any other case, by the referring body.rules 6.36–6.38: Ins 2007 (164), Sch 1 [2].
(1) This rule applies to any proceedings with respect to a referred matter that has arisen in original proceedings.(2) Subject to rule 7.8, the party at whose instance the matter has been referred is to have the conduct of the proceedings.rules 6.36–6.38: Ins 2007 (164), Sch 1 [2].
6.39 Insufficient case
(cf SCR Part 32, rule 7)
(1) This rule applies to any proceedings in which it appears to the Supreme Court that a special case:(a) does not sufficiently state the questions to be decided or the facts from which those questions arise, orto enable it to determine the proceedings.(b) does not annex sufficient documents,(2) In these circumstances, the Supreme Court:(a) may add to or otherwise alter the special case, or(b) may send the special case back to the referring body for the purpose of addition or other alteration.(c) (Repealed)rule 6.39: Ins 2007 (164), Sch 1 [2]. Am 2008 (338), Sch 1 [8] [9].
6.40 Inferences
(cf FCR Ord 50, rule 1 (3))
The Supreme Court may draw from the facts stated in, and the documents annexed to, a special case any inference, whether of fact or law, that might have been drawn from them if proved at a trial.rules 6.40, 6.41: Ins 2007 (164), Sch 1 [2].
6.41 Referred matters under section 28 of the Constitution Further Amendment (Referendum) Act 1930
(1) This rule applies to any question that is referred to the Supreme Court under section 28 of the Constitution Further Amendment (Referendum) Act 1930.(2) Proceedings on the question are commenced by transmission to the Prothonotary of a statement of the question, as provided for in section 29 of the Constitution Further Amendment (Referendum) Act 1930.(3) On receiving the statement, the Prothonotary must list the matter before a Judge of the Supreme Court for directions.(4) The Supreme Court may give all such directions as are necessary for the conduct and disposal of the proceedings on the question.(5) Rules 6.35–6.40 do not apply to the proceedings on the question.rules 6.40, 6.41: Ins 2007 (164), Sch 1 [2].
Part 7 Parties to proceedings and representation
Division 1 General
7.1 By whom proceedings may be commenced and carried on
(cf SCR Part 4, rules 4 and 4A, Part 66, rule 1; Act No 9 1973, section 43; Act No 11 1970, section 11)
(1) A natural person may commence and carry on proceedings in any court, either by a solicitor acting on his or her behalf or in person.(2) A company within the meaning of the Corporations Act 2001 of the Commonwealth:(a) may commence and carry on proceedings in any court by a solicitor or by a director of the company, and(b) may commence and, unless the court orders otherwise, carry on proceedings in the Local Court by a duly authorised officer or employee of the company.(3) In the case of proceedings in the Supreme Court, subrule (2) (a) authorises a company to commence proceedings by a director only if the director is also a plaintiff in the proceedings.(4) A corporation (other than a company within the meaning of the Corporations Act 2001 of the Commonwealth):(a) may commence and carry on proceedings in any court by a solicitor, and(b) may commence and carry on proceedings in any court (other than the Local Court) by a duly authorised officer of the corporation, and(c) may commence and, unless the court orders otherwise, carry on proceedings in the Local Court by a duly authorised officer or employee of the corporation.(5) Despite subrules (1)–(4), any person may commence and, unless the court orders otherwise, carry on proceedings in the Local Court:(a) by a commercial agent with respect to debt collection (within the meaning of the Commercial Agents and Private Inquiry Agents Act 2004), in relation only to proceedings on an application for:(i) an instalment order, or(ii) an order for examination, or(iii) a writ of execution, or(iv) a garnishee order, or(b) by a person holding a licence as a real estate agent, strata managing agent or on-site residential property manager within the meaning of the Property, Stock and Business Agents Act 2002 in relation only to:(i) proceedings on an application referred to in paragraph (a), or(ii) the filing of a certificate under section 51 of the Consumer, Trader and Tenancy Tribunal Act 2001.(6) A solicitor who is a person’s solicitor on the record must hold an unrestricted practising certificate.Note—The term solicitor on the record is defined in the Dictionary.rule 7.1: Am 2006 (288), Sch 1 [3]; 2009 (88), Sch 1 [8].
7.2 Affidavit as to authority to commence and carry on proceedings in Supreme Court or District Court
(cf SCR Part 4, rule 4A, Part 11, rule 1A)
(1) A person who commences or carries on proceedings in the Supreme Court or District Court:(a) as the director of a company within the meaning of the Corporations Act 2001 of the Commonwealth, ormust file with the originating process, notice of appearance or defence, as the case may be, an affidavit as to his or her authority to act in that capacity, together with a copy of the instrument evidencing that authority.(b) as the authorised officer of a corporation (other than a company within the meaning of the Corporations Act 2001 of the Commonwealth),(2) The affidavit made by the director of a company within the meaning of the Corporations Act 2001 of the Commonwealth must contain:(a) a statement to the effect that:(i) the director is a director of the company, and(ii) the director has been authorised by a resolution of the directors duly passed at a meeting of directors held on a specified date (which must not be earlier than 21 days before the date of the affidavit) to commence and carry on the proceedings, as the case requires, and(iii) the authority has not been revoked, and(iv) the director is aware that he or she may be liable to pay some or all of the costs of the proceedings, or(b) a statement to the effect that:(i) the director is the managing or governing director of the company and has authority to exercise the powers of the directors, and(ii) the director is aware that he or she may be liable to pay some or all of the costs of the proceedings.(3) The affidavit made by the authorised officer of a corporation (other than a company within the meaning of the Corporations Act 2001 of the Commonwealth) must contain a statement to the effect that:(a) the officer is the holder of a specified office within the corporation, and(b) the officer has been authorised by the corporation to commence and carry on the proceedings, and(c) the authority has not been revoked, and(d) the officer is aware that he or she may be liable to pay some or all of the costs of the proceedings.
7.3 Issue of subpoena in certain circumstances requires leave
(cf SCR Part 66, rule 1A)
(1) A subpoena may not be issued, except by leave of the court, unless the party at whose request the subpoena is to be issued is represented by a solicitor in the proceedings.(2) Leave under subrule (1) may be given either generally or in relation to a particular subpoena or subpoenas.(3) Despite subrule (1), a subpoena may not be issued in relation to proceedings in the Small Claims Division of the Local Court, except by leave of the court, in any circumstances.
Division 2 Representation
7.4 Representation of concurrent interests
(cf SCR Part 8, rule 13; DCR Part 7, rule 15)
(1) Subject to subrule (5), this rule applies to any proceedings concerning:(a) any matter in which:(i) numerous persons have claims against the same person, and(ii) the claims of all those persons are in respect of, or arise out of, the same, similar or related circumstances, and(iii) the claims of all those persons give rise to a substantial common issue of law or fact, or(b) any matter in which numerous persons have the same liability.(2) Proceedings to which this rule applies may be commenced and, unless the court orders otherwise, carried on by or against any one or more persons as representing any one or more of them.(2A) Any such proceedings may be commenced:(a) whether or not the relief sought:(i) is, or includes, equitable relief, or(ii) consists of, or includes, damages, or(iii) includes claims for damages that would require individual assessment, or(iv) is the same for each represented person, and(b) whether or not the proceedings:(i) are concerned with separate contracts or transactions between the defendant in the proceedings and individual represented persons, or(ii) involve separate acts or omissions of the defendant done or omitted to be done in relation to individual represented persons.(3) At any stage of the proceedings, the plaintiff may apply to the court for an order appointing one or more of the defendants or one or more of the other persons to represent any one or more of them.(4) If a person who is not a party to the proceedings is appointed as referred to in subrule (3), that person must be joined as a party under rule 6.24.(4A) If it appears to the court that determination of the issue or issues common to all the represented persons will not finally determine the claims of all the represented persons, the court may give directions in relation to the determination of the remaining issues.(4B) Without limiting subrule (4A), the court may direct that notice be given to some or all of the represented persons in the proceedings in respect of any matter.(4C) A represented person, whether or not joined as a party, is taken to have brought proceedings on the day on which the person became a represented person on all of the person’s causes of action that may be determined by judgment in the proceedings.(5) This rule does not apply to proceedings concerning:(a) the administration of a deceased person’s estate, or(b) property the subject of a trust.rule 7.4: Am 2007 (539), Sch 1 [1]–[4]; 2007 (579), Sch 1 [7].
7.5 Judgments and orders in proceedings bind represented persons
(cf SCR Part 8, rule 13; DCR Part 7, rule 15)
(1) A judgment or order made in proceedings in which a party has, pursuant to rule 7.4, represented a number of persons binds all of those persons, but is not enforceable against any of those persons who is not a party except by leave of the court.(2) Notice of motion for an application for leave under subrule (1) must be personally served on the person against whom the judgment or order is sought to be enforced.(3) Subrule (1) does not prevent a person against whom the judgment or order is sought to be enforced from disputing liability by reference to circumstances peculiar to his or her case.rule 7.5: Am 2007 (449), Sch 1 [2].
7.6 Representation in cases concerning administration of estates, trust property or statutory interpretation
(cf SCR Part 8, rule 14)
(1) In relation to proceedings concerning:(a) the administration of a deceased person’s estate, or(b) property the subject of a trust, orwhere a person or class of persons is or may be interested in or affected by the proceedings, the court may appoint one or more of those persons to represent any one or more of them.(c) the construction of an Act, instrument or other document,(2) A person or persons may not be appointed under subrule (1) unless the court is satisfied of one or more of the following:(a) that the person or class, or a member of the class, cannot, or cannot readily, be ascertained,(b) that the person or class, or a member of the class, although ascertained, cannot be found,(c) that, although the person or class, or a member of the class, has been ascertained and found, it is expedient for the purpose of saving expense (having regard to all of the circumstances, including the amount at stake and the degree of difficulty of the issue or issues to be determined) for a representative to be appointed to represent any one or more of them.(3) For the purposes of this rule, persons may be treated as having an interest or liability:(a) even if, in relation to one or more of them, the interest or liability is a contingent or future interest or liability, or(b) even if one or more of those persons is an unborn child.(4) This rule does not limit the operation of rule 7.10.
7.7 Judgments and orders bind represented persons in estate and trust property proceedings
(cf SCR Part 8, rule 14)
A judgment or order made in proceedings in which a party has, by an order under rule 7.6, been appointed to represent a number of persons, or members of a class of persons, binds all such persons, and all members of such a class, as if they had been parties to the proceedings.
7.8 Court may determine who has conduct of proceedings
(cf SCR Part 8, rule 17; DCR Part 7, rule 14; LCR Part 6, rule 15)
The court may give the conduct of the whole or any part of any proceedings to such person as it thinks fit.
7.9 Judgments and orders bind beneficiaries
(cf SCR Part 8, rule 15)
(1) This rule applies to proceedings that have been commenced by or against a trustee, executor or administrator, including proceedings to enforce a security by way of foreclosure or otherwise.(2) It is not necessary to join as a party any of the persons having a beneficial interest under the trust, or in the estate, concerned.(3) Subject to subrule (4), any judgment that is given, and any order that is made, is as binding on a person having a beneficial interest under the trust, or in the estate, as it is binding on the trustee, executor or administrator.(4) If, in relation to proceedings in which such a judgment or order has been made, the court is satisfied that the representative, trustee, executor or administrator did not in fact represent some or all of the persons having a beneficial interest under the trust, or in the estate, the court may order that the judgment or order does not bind those persons.(5) This rule does not limit the power of the court to order that a party be joined under rule 6.24.
7.10 Interests of deceased person
(cf SCR Part 8, rule 16; DCR Part 7, rule 13; LCR Part 6, rule 14)
(1) This rule applies to any proceedings in which it appears to the court:(a) that a deceased person’s estate has an interest in the proceedings, but is not represented in the proceedings, or(b) that the executors or administrators of a deceased person’s estate have an interest in the proceedings that is adverse to the interests of the estate.(2) The court:(a) may order that the proceedings continue in the absence of a representative of the deceased person’s estate, or(b) may appoint a representative of the deceased person’s estate for the purposes of the proceedings, but only with the consent of the person to be appointed.(3) Any order under this rule, and any judgment or order subsequently entered or made in the proceedings, binds the deceased person’s estate to the same extent as the estate would have been bound had a personal representative of the deceased person been a party to the proceedings.(4) Before making an order under this rule, the court may order that notice of the application be given to such of the persons having an interest in the estate as it thinks fit.
Division 3 Executors, administrators and trustees
7.11 Executors, administrators and trustees
(cf SCR Part 68, rule 4)
(1) In proceedings relating to an estate, all executors of the will of the deceased, or all administrators of the estate, must be parties unless one or more of them has represented the others pursuant to rule 7.4.(2) In proceedings relating to a trust, all trustees must be parties.(3) In proceedings commenced by executors, administrators or trustees, any executor, administrator or trustee who does not consent to being joined as a plaintiff must be made a defendant.rule 7.11: Am 2007 (449), Sch 1 [3].
7.12 Beneficiaries and claimants
(cf SCR Part 68, rule 5)
(1) In proceedings relating to an estate, all persons having a beneficial interest in or claim against the estate need not be parties, but the plaintiff may make parties of such of those persons as he or she thinks fit.(2) In proceedings relating to a trust, all persons having a beneficial interest under the trust need not be parties, but the plaintiff may make parties of such of those persons as he or she thinks fit.(3) This rule has effect despite rule 6.20 (Proceedings affecting persons having joint entitlement).
Division 4 Persons under legal incapacity
7.13 Definition
In this Division, person under legal incapacity includes a person who is incapable of managing his or her affairs.
7.14 Proceedings to be commenced or carried on by tutor
(cf SCR Part 63, rules 2 and 3 (2); DCR Part 45, rules 2 and 3; LCR Part 34, rules 3 and 4)
(1) A person under legal incapacity may not commence or carry on proceedings except by his or her tutor.(2) Unless the court orders otherwise, the tutor of a person under legal incapacity may not commence or carry on proceedings except by a solicitor.
7.15 Tutors generally
(cf SCR Part 63, rules 4 and 5; DCR Part 45, rules 4 and 5; LCR Part 34, rules 5 and 6)
(1) Subject to this Division, a person may become the tutor of a person under legal incapacity without the need for any formal instrument of appointment or any order of a court.(2) Any person (other than a corporation) is eligible to be the tutor of a person under legal incapacity, in respect of any proceedings, unless the person is:(a) a person under legal incapacity, or(b) a judicial officer, a registrar or any other person involved in the administration of a court, or(c) a person who has an interest in the proceedings adverse to the interests of the person under legal incapacity.(3) In the case of proceedings with respect to the estate of a person whose estate is subject to management under the Protected Estates Act 1983, the tutor of that person is to be the person who has the management of the person’s estate under that Act.(4) Subrule (3) does not apply if the person concerned declines to act as tutor or is unable to act as tutor, or if the court orders otherwise.(5) A person may not replace another person as tutor of a person under legal incapacity except by order of the court.(6) Anything that these rules authorise or require a party to do in relation to the conduct of proceedings may, if the party is a person under legal incapacity, be done on his or her behalf by his or her tutor.
7.16 Tutor to file certain documents
(cf SCR Part 63, rule 4; DCR Part 45, rule 4; LCR Part 34, rule 5)
A tutor may not commence or carry on proceedings on behalf of a person under legal incapacity unless there have been filed:(a) the tutor’s consent to act as tutor, and(b) a certificate, signed by the tutor’s solicitor in the proceedings, to the effect that the tutor does not have any interest in the proceedings adverse to the interests of the person under legal incapacity.
7.17 Non-appearance of person under legal incapacity
(cf SCR Part 63, rule 6; DCR Part 45, rule 6; LCR Part 34, rules 3A and 7)
(1) Subject to subrule (2), the plaintiff in proceedings against a defendant who is a person under legal incapacity may take no further step in the proceedings following service of the originating process until a tutor has entered an appearance on behalf of the defendant.Note—If no such appearance is entered, the plaintiff may apply to the court under rule 7.18 for the appointment of a tutor of the defendant, or for the removal and appointment of such a tutor.(2) In the case of proceedings in the Local Court against a defendant who appears to be a person under legal incapacity by reason only of his or her minority:(a) the plaintiff may serve on the defendant a notice requiring a tutor of the defendant to enter an appearance in the proceedings, and(b) unless the court orders otherwise, the plaintiff may continue the proceedings as if the defendant were not a person under legal incapacity if such an appearance is not entered within 28 days after service of the notice.
7.18 Court may appoint and remove tutors
(cf SCR Part 63, rules 5, 7 and 8; DCR Part 45, rules 7 and 8; LCR Part 34, rules 8 and 9)
(1) In any proceedings in which a party is or becomes a person under legal incapacity:(a) if the person does not have a tutor, the court may appoint a tutor, or(b) if the person has a tutor, the court may remove the party’s tutor and appoint another tutor.(2) In any proceedings concerning a person under legal incapacity who is not a party, the court may appoint a tutor of the person and join the person as a party to the proceedings.(3) If the court removes a party’s tutor, it may also stay the proceedings pending the appointment of a new tutor.(4) Subject to any order of the court, notice of any motion under this rule is to be served on the person under legal incapacity and, if it proposes removal of the person’s tutor, on the tutor.(5) In proceedings on a motion for the appointment of a tutor, evidence in support of the motion must include:(a) evidence that the party for whom a tutor is to be appointed is a person under legal incapacity, and(b) evidence that the proposed tutor consents to being appointed and does not have any interest in the proceedings adverse to the interests of the person under legal incapacity.(6) An application for appointment as tutor under this rule may be made by the court of its own motion or on the motion of any other person, including the proposed tutor.
Division 5 Business names
7.19 Persons to sue and be sued in own name
(cf SCR Part 64, rule 4)
Subject to this Division, persons are to sue and be sued in their own names, and not under any business name.
7.20 Proceedings against defendant operating under unregistered business name
(cf SCR Part 64, rule 2; DCR Part 46, rule 2; LCR Part 35, rule 2)
(1) Proceedings against a person in respect of anything done or omitted to be done by the person in the course of, or in relation to, a business carried on under an unregistered business name may be commenced against that person, as defendant, under that name.(2) For the purposes of any such proceedings, the unregistered business name is taken to be a sufficient description of that person.(3) Any judgment or order arising from any such proceedings may be enforced against that person.
7.21 Defendant sued in business name to respond in own name
(cf SCR Part 64, rule 4; DCR Part 46, rule 3; LCR Part 35, rule 3)
(1) In any proceedings in which a defendant is sued under a business name, the defendant must not enter an appearance or file a defence otherwise than in his or her own name.(2) When entering an appearance or filing a defence, the defendant must also file a statement of the names and residential addresses of all persons who were carrying on business under the business name concerned when the proceedings were commenced.(3) The court may order that a defendant’s notice of appearance or defence be struck out if the defendant has failed to comply with subrule (2).
7.22 Plaintiff to amend documents in the proceedings to replace business name with defendant’s own name
(cf SCR Part 64, rule 5; DCR Part 46, rule 4; LCR Part 35, rule 4)
(1) In any proceedings in which a defendant is sued under a business name, the plaintiff must take such steps as are reasonably practicable:(a) to ascertain the name and residential address of the defendant, and(b) to amend such documents in the proceedings as will enable the proceedings to be continued against the defendant in his or her own name.(2) In any such proceedings, the plaintiff may not, except by leave of the court, take any step in the proceedings other than:(a) the steps of filing and serving originating process, anduntil the documents in the proceedings have been amended as referred to in subrule (1) (b).(b) steps to ascertain the name and residential address of the defendant,
Division 6 Relators
7.23 Relators
(cf SCR Part 4, rule 5)
(1) A relator must act by a solicitor.(2) A solicitor may not act for a relator in any proceedings unless:(a) the relator has authorised the solicitor to act in that regard, and(b) a copy of the instrument authorising the solicitor to act in that regard has been filed.
Division 7 Appointment and removal of solicitors
7.24 Power to act by solicitor
(cf SCR Part 66, rule 1; DCR Part 48, rule 1; LCR Part 37, rule 1)
(1) Every act, matter or thing which, by or under the Civil Procedure Act 2005 or these rules or otherwise by law, is required or allowed to be done by a party may be done by his or her solicitor.(2) Subrule (1) does not apply where the context or subject-matter otherwise indicates or requires.
7.25 Adverse parties
(cf SCR Part 66, rule 2; DCR Part 48, rule 2; LCR Part 37, rule 2)
If a solicitor or a partner of the solicitor is a party to any proceedings, or acts as solicitor for a party to any proceedings, that solicitor may not act for any other party in the proceedings, not in the same interest, except by leave of the court.
7.26 Change of solicitor or agent
(cf SCR Part 66, rules 3 and 4; DCR Part 48, rule 4; LCR Part 37, rule 4)
(1) A party for whom there is a solicitor on the record in any proceedings may change solicitors.(1A) The new solicitor on the record must hold an unrestricted practising certificate.(2) A solicitor who has another solicitor acting as his or her agent in relation to a party may change agents.(3) A party who changes solicitors, or whose solicitor changes agents, must file notice of the change.(4) A copy of the notice of change, as filed, must be served on all other active parties and, if practicable, on the former solicitor or agent.rule 7.26: Am 2009 (88), Sch 1 [9] [10].
7.27 Removal of solicitor
(cf SCR Part 66, rule 6; DCR Part 48, rule 4; LCR Part 37, rule 4)
(1) A party that terminates the authority of a solicitor to act on the party’s behalf must file notice of the termination.(2) A copy of the notice of termination, as filed, must be served on all other active parties and, if practicable, on the former solicitor.(3) Filing and service of the notice of termination on the other parties may be effected by the former solicitor.(4) This rule does not apply to a change of solicitor referred to in rule 7.26.
7.28 Appointment of solicitor by previously unrepresented party
(cf SCR Part 66, rule 5; DCR Part 48, rule 3; LCR Part 37, rule 3)
(1) A party that acts for himself or herself in any proceedings may afterwards appoint a solicitor to act in the proceedings on the party’s behalf.(2) A party that appoints a solicitor as referred to in subrule (1) must file and serve notice of the appointment.
7.29 Withdrawal of solicitor
(cf SCR Part 66, rule 7; DCR Part 48, rule 4; LCR Part 37, rule 4)
(1) A solicitor who ceases to act for a party in any proceedings may file notice of the change and serve the notice on the parties.(2) Except by leave of the court, a solicitor may not file or serve notice of the change unless he or she has filed and served on the client a notice of intention to file and serve the notice of change:(a) in the case of proceedings for which a date for trial has been fixed, at least 28 days before doing so, or(b) in any other case, at least 7 days before doing so.(3) Unless notice of the change is filed with the leave of the court, a solicitor filing such a notice must include in the notice a statement as to the date on which service of the notice of intention required by subrule (2) was effected.(4) A solicitor may serve a notice of change or notice of intention under this rule on the former client by posting it to the former client at the residential or business address of the former client last known to the solicitor.rule 7.29: Am 2009 (166), Sch 1 [3].
7.30 Effect of change
(cf SCR Part 66, rule 8; DCR Part 48, rule 5; LCR Part 37, rule 5)
A change for which notice is required or permitted to be given under this Division does not take effect:(a) as regards the court, until the notice is filed, and(b) as regards any person on whom it is required or permitted to be served, until a copy of the notice, as filed, is served on that person.
7.31 Actions by a solicitor corporation
(cf SCR Part 66, rule 10)
Where, by or under the Civil Procedure Act 2005 or these rules or otherwise by law:(a) any act, matter or thing is authorised or required to be done by a solicitor for a person, and(b) the solicitor is a solicitor corporation, andthe act, matter or thing may be done by a solicitor who is a director, officer or employee of the corporation.(c) the act, matter or thing can, in the circumstances of the case, only be done by a natural person,
Division 8 Commencement of proceedings under particular Acts
pt 7, div 8: Ins 2007 (579), Sch 4 [1].
7.32 Proceedings under the Confiscation of Proceeds of Crime Act 1989
(1) Without limiting rule 7.1 (1), an appropriate officer within the meaning of the Confiscation of Proceeds of Crime Act 1989 may commence and carry on proceedings in the Local Court by a police prosecutor in relation to an application under that Act:(a) for a pecuniary penalty order, forfeiture order or drug proceeds order under that Act, or(b) for confirmation of a freezing notice.(2) Once proceedings of the kind referred to in subrule (1) (a) or (b) (the original proceedings) have been commenced under the Confiscation of Proceeds of Crime Act 1989 in relation to any person, whether in the Local Court or elsewhere, any further proceedings under that Act in relation to the same person (whether or not they form part of, or relate to, the original proceedings), are to be commenced by notice of motion filed in the original proceedings.Note—Pursuant to rule 6.4, the original proceedings must be commenced by summons.rule 7.32: Ins 2007 (579), Sch 4 [1]. Am 2007 (579), Sch 4 [2].
Division 9 Court appointed referral for legal assistance
pt 7, div 9: Ins 2008 (494), Sch 1 [4].
7.33 Objectives
(cf SCR Part 66A, rule 1; DCR Part 28C, rule 1)
(1) In the interpretation of this Division, preference must be given to a construction that will promote, and be consistent with, the purpose in subrule (2) and the statements in subrules (3) and (4).(2) The purpose of this Division is to facilitate, where it is in the interests of the administration of justice, the provision of legal assistance to litigants who are otherwise unable to obtain assistance.(3) The provision of legal assistance under this Division is not intended to be a substitute for legal aid.(4) A referral under this Division is not an indication that the court has formed an opinion on the merits of a litigant’s case.(5) Nothing in this Division requires the court to make a referral, or to consider a litigant’s case for referral, under this Division.rules 7.33–7.35: Ins 2008 (494), Sch 1 [4].
7.34 Definitions
(cf SCR Part 66A, rule 2; DCR Part 28C, rule 2)
In this Division:litigant, in relation to any proceedings, means:(a) a party to the proceedings, or(b) a person who has been served with a subpoena in the proceedings, or(c) a person who has applied to be joined in the proceedings.Pro Bono Panel means the list of barristers and solicitors referred to in rule 7.35.registrar means:(a) in relation to the Supreme Court, the principal registrar of that Court, and(b) in relation to the Land and Environment Court, the registrar of that Court, and(c) in relation to the District Court when sitting at a proclaimed place (within the meaning of the District Court Act 1973), the registrar of the District Court for that place, and(d) in relation to the Local Court, the registrar for that Local Court.scheme means the scheme for the provision of legal assistance to litigants under this Division.rules 7.33–7.35: Ins 2008 (494), Sch 1 [4].
7.35 Pro Bono Panel
(cf SCR Part 66A, rule 3; DCR Part 28C, rule 3)
The registrar may maintain a list of persons:(a) who are barristers or solicitors, and(b) who have agreed to participate in the scheme in relation to that court.rules 7.33–7.35: Ins 2008 (494), Sch 1 [4].
7.36 Referral to a barrister or solicitor
(cf SCR Part 66A, rule 4; DCR Part 28C, rule 4)
(1) If satisfied that it is in the interests of the administration of justice, the court may, by order, refer a litigant to the registrar for referral to a barrister or solicitor on the Pro Bono Panel for legal assistance.(2) For the purposes of subrule (1), the court may take into account:(a) the means of the litigant, and(b) the capacity of the litigant to obtain legal assistance outside the scheme, and(c) the nature and complexity of the proceedings, and(d) any other matter that the court considers appropriate.(2A) The court may not refer a litigant for assistance under this rule if the litigant has obtained assistance under a previous referral at any time during the immediately preceding period of 3 years unless the court is satisfied that there are special reasons that justify a further referral.(3) The power to refer may be exercised in the absence of the public and without any attendance by or on behalf of any person.(4) If a litigant is referred for assistance under this rule, the registrar must attempt to arrange for legal assistance to be provided to the litigant by a barrister or solicitor on the Pro Bono Panel.(4A) If the registrar is unable to arrange legal assistance for a litigant who is referred under this rule within 28 days after the litigant’s referral, the registrar may make an order terminating the litigant’s referral.(5) The registrar may refer a litigant to a particular barrister or solicitor only if the barrister or solicitor has agreed to accept the referral.(6) A referral to a barrister does not prevent a referral also being made to a solicitor and a referral to a solicitor does not prevent a referral also being made to a barrister.rule 7.36: Ins 2008 (494), Sch 1 [4]. Am 2009 (166), Sch 1 [4] [5].
7.37 Kind of assistance
(cf SCR Part 66A, rule 5; DCR Part 28C, rule 5)
A referral may be made for the following kinds of assistance:(a) advice in relation to the proceedings,(b) representation on directions hearing, interlocutory or final hearing, arbitration or mediation,(c) drafting or settling of documents to be filed or used in the proceedings,(d) representation generally in the conduct of the proceedings or of part of the proceedings.rules 7.37, 7.38: Ins 2008 (494), Sch 1 [4].
7.38 Provision of assistance by barrister or solicitor
(cf SCR Part 66A, rule 6; DCR Part 28C, rule 6)
Subject to rule 7.39, if a barrister or solicitor agrees to accept a referral, he or she must provide assistance to the litigant in accordance with the referral.rules 7.37, 7.38: Ins 2008 (494), Sch 1 [4].
7.39 Cessation of assistance
(cf SCR Part 66A, rule 7; DCR Part 28C, rule 7)
(1) A barrister or solicitor who has agreed to accept a referral may cease to provide legal assistance to the litigant only:(a) in the circumstances set out in any practice rules governing professional conduct that apply to the barrister or solicitor, or(b) with the written agreement of the litigant, or(c) with the leave of the registrar.(2) If a barrister or solicitor ceases to provide legal assistance to a litigant, the barrister or solicitor must inform the registrar in writing within 7 days of so ceasing.(3) If a barrister or solicitor ceases to provide legal assistance to a litigant, the referral of the litigant for legal assistance in the proceedings concerned is taken, unless the court otherwise orders, to have been terminated on that cessation.rule 7.39: Ins 2008 (494), Sch 1 [4]. Am 2009 (166), Sch 1 [6].
7.40 Application for leave
(cf SCR Part 66A, rule 8; DCR Part 28C, rule 8)
(1) An application by a barrister or solicitor to the registrar for leave to cease to provide legal assistance must be in writing and must briefly state the reasons for the application.(2) A copy of the application for leave must be served on the litigant.(3) An application for leave may be heard by the registrar in the absence of the public and without any attendance by or on behalf of any person.(4) In deciding whether to grant leave under this rule, the registrar may consider any of the following matters:(a) whether the barrister or solicitor would be likely to be able to cease to provide legal assistance to the litigant under any practice rules governing professional conduct that apply to the barrister or solicitor,(b) any conflict of interest that the barrister or solicitor may have,(c) whether there is a substantial disagreement between the barrister or solicitor and the litigant in relation to the conduct of the litigation,(d) any view of the barrister or solicitor:(i) that the litigant’s case is not well founded in fact or law, or(ii) that the litigant’s prosecution of the litigation is an abuse of process,(e) whether the barrister or solicitor lacks the time to provide adequate legal assistance to the litigant because of other professional commitments,(f) whether the litigant has refused or failed to pay any disbursements requested under rule 7.42,(g) whether it is unfair to the barrister or solicitor to require him or her to continue to provide legal assistance under the scheme,(h) any other matter that the registrar considers relevant.(5) An application for leave under this rule and any related correspondence:(a) is confidential, and(b) is not part of the proceedings in relation to which the referral was made, and(c) does not form part of the court file in relation to those proceedings.rules 7.40–7.42: Ins 2008 (494), Sch 1 [4].
7.41 Costs
(cf SCR Part 66A, rule 9; DCR Part 28C, rule 9)
(1) Subject to subrules (2) and (3) and rule 7.42, a barrister or solicitor who provides legal assistance to a litigant under the scheme must not seek or recover any costs for the legal assistance.(2) If an order for costs is made in favour of a litigant who is assisted under the scheme, the barrister or solicitor who has provided the legal assistance is entitled to recover the amount of costs that another person is required to pay under the order.(3) A barrister or solicitor must account to the litigant for any money received by the barrister or solicitor in respect of any disbursements that have been paid by the litigant.rules 7.40–7.42: Ins 2008 (494), Sch 1 [4].
7.42 Disbursements
(cf SCR Part 66A, rule 10; DCR Part 28C, rule 10)
A barrister or solicitor who provides legal assistance to a litigant under the scheme may request the litigant to pay any disbursements that have been, or may reasonably be, incurred by the barrister or solicitor on the litigant’s behalf in connection with the legal assistance.rules 7.40–7.42: Ins 2008 (494), Sch 1 [4].
Part 8 Venue
pt 8, note: Rep 2007 (579), Sch 2 [3].
8.1 Venue at which proceedings to be heard
(cf Act No 9 1973, section 4; DCR Part 2A, rule 1; LCR Part 1, rule 3, Part 3, rule 2)
(1) Unless the court orders otherwise, the venue at which proceedings are to be heard is the venue specified by the plaintiff in the originating process.(2) The venue so specified must be a venue at which the court sits.
8.2 Change of venue generally
(cf Act No 9 1973, section 40; DCR Part 2A, rule 4)
(1) If it appears to the court:(a) that a fair or unprejudiced trial of a question arising or likely to arise in or in connection with any proceedings cannot otherwise be had, orthe court may, subject to this Part, make an order changing the venue of the proceedings.(b) for any other reason it is appropriate for the venue of any proceedings to be changed,(2) The judicial officer before whom proceedings are being heard by the court may direct that proceedings commenced at one location be continued at another location at which he or she is authorised to hear those proceedings.
8.3 Part not to apply to orders for examination
This Part does not apply to the examination of a judgment debtor under an order for examination.
Part 9 Cross-claims
9.1 Making of cross-claim
(cf SCR Part 6, rule 10; DCR Part 20, rule 10; LCR Part 18, rule 1)
(1) A party (the cross-claimant) may make a cross-claim:(a) in proceedings commenced by statement of claim, within the time limited for the party to file a defence, oror within such further time as the court may allow.(b) in proceedings commenced by summons, before the return day specified in the summons,(2) A cross-claim is to be made:(a) by statement of cross-claim, in the case of a cross-claim in proceedings commenced by statement of claim, or(b) by cross-summons, in the case of a cross-claim in proceedings commenced by summons.(3) Subject to this Part, these rules apply to a statement of cross-claim and cross-summons in the same way as they apply to a statement of claim and summons, respectively.(4) In any proceedings, each cross-claim is to be numbered (“first cross-claim”, “second cross-claim” and so on) in the order in which the cross-claims are filed.(5) For the purposes of rule 4.2 (2) (d), the identification of a document as a cross-claim must include the number given to the cross-claim under this rule.rule 9.1: Am 2007 (164), Sch 1 [3].
9.2 Existing parties need not enter separate appearance
A party against whom a cross-claim is made (the cross-defendant) is not required to enter an appearance if he or she:(a) is a party to the proceedings in which the cross-claim is made, and(b) has entered an appearance in those proceedings.
9.3 Cross-claimant may rely on previous pleadings
(cf SCR Part 6, rule 11; DCR Part 20, rule 11; LCR Part 18, rule 1)
A cross-claimant may, in the cross-claim, plead all or any of the facts on which he or she relies by reference to the previous pleadings in the proceedings from which the cross-claim arises.
9.4 Defence
The cross-defendant must include in his or her defence to a statement of cross-claim any grounds on which he or she disputes the claim made by the cross-claimant.rule 9.4: Am 2005 (625), Sch 1 [9].
9.5 Default of cross-defendant to cross-claim
(cf SCR Part 6, rule 7; DCR Part 20, rule 7)
If a cross-defendant does not file a defence to a statement of cross-claim in accordance with these rules or an order of the court:(a) any judgment (including summary judgment, judgment by default or judgment by consent) on any claim, question or issue in the proceedings, so far as it is relevant to the cross-claim, andis binding, as between the parties to the cross-claim, unless the court orders otherwise.(b) any decision (including any decision by consent) on any claim, question or issue in the proceedings, so far as it is relevant,rule 9.5: Am 2005 (625), Sch 1 [10].
9.6 Service on active parties
(cf SCR Part 6, rule 5; DCR Part 20, rule 5)
(1) If a cross-defendant is an active party, personal service of a statement of cross-claim or cross-summons on that party is not required.(2) Rule 10.16 (Service by filing) does not apply to service of a statement of cross-claim or cross-summons.
9.7 Service on new parties
(cf SCR Part 6, rule 5; DCR Part 20, rule 5; LCR Part 18, rule 1)
(1) This rule applies to the service of a statement of cross-claim or cross-summons on a person who is not already a party to the proceedings from which the cross-claim arises.(2) When serving the statement of cross-claim or cross-summons, the cross-claimant must serve on the cross-defendant both the originating process in the proceedings from which the cross-claim arises and such of the following documents as have been filed by or served on the cross-claimant:(a) in proceedings commenced by statement of claim or in which a statement of claim has been filed, any other pleadings,(b) in proceedings commenced by summons, any other cross-summonses,(c) any notices of motion not finally disposed of,(d) any affidavits, other than affidavits that are not relevant to the questions arising on the cross-claim,(e) any other documents that have been served by the plaintiff on the defendant, or by the defendant on the plaintiff, and are intended to be relied on,(f) any amendments to any of the documents referred to in paragraphs (a)–(e).(3) Service of a statement of cross-claim or cross-summons must be effected in accordance with the provisions of these rules with respect to service of originating process.
9.8 Directions
(cf SCR Part 6, rule 4; DCR Part 20, rule 4; LCR Part 18, rule 4)
The court, at any stage of the proceedings:(a) may order that any cross-claim, or any question in or arising on any cross-claim, is to be separately tried, and(b) may direct generally the extent to which the usual procedures at a trial or hearing are to be modified because of the joinder of the cross-defendant.
9.9 Proceedings to continue together
(cf SCR Part 6, rule 6 (1); DCR Part 20, rule 6 (1); LCR Part 18, rule 3 (1))
Unless the court orders otherwise, proceedings on a cross-claim are to be carried on together with the proceedings from which the cross-claim arises.
9.10 Cross-claim may be separately prosecuted
(cf SCR Part 6, rule 8; DCR Part 20, rule 8; LCR Part 18, rule 3 (5))
(1) A cross-claim may proceed even if:(a) judgment has been entered on the originating process in the proceedings from which the cross-claim arises or any other cross-claim in the proceedings, or(b) the proceedings on the originating process or any other cross-claim have been stayed, dismissed, withdrawn or discontinued.(2) Proceedings on the originating process in the proceedings from which the cross-claim arises may proceed even if:(a) judgment has been entered on any cross-claim in the proceedings, or(b) the proceedings on any such cross-claim have been stayed, dismissed, withdrawn or discontinued.
9.11 Contribution or indemnity
(cf SCR Part 6, rule 9; DCR Part 20, rule 9; LCR Part 19, rule 1)
(1) If a defendant makes a cross-claim for contribution or indemnity in respect of a claim made against the defendant in the proceedings, judgment on the cross-claim:(a) is not to be entered except by leave of the court, and(b) is not to be enforced until any judgment in the proceedings against the defendant has been satisfied.(2) If a cross-claim in any proceedings includes a claim for contribution under section 5 of the Law Reform (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1946 in respect of a claim made in the proceedings against the party by whom it is filed, a defence to the cross-claim, or subsequent pleadings on the cross-claim, may not be filed unless the court so directs.
Part 10 Service of documents generally
Division 1 Service generally
10.1 Service of filed documents
(cf SCR Part 15, rule 28)
(1) Unless the court orders otherwise, a party that files a document must as soon as practicable serve copies of the document on each other active party.(2) In the case of proceedings in the Local Court, an originating process may, and a defence must, be served on the other parties, on behalf of the party by whom it was filed, by an officer of the Local Court.Note—See rules 10.7 and 10.8 as to how service is to be effected by a court.
10.2 Service of affidavits
(cf SCR Part 38, rule 7; DCR Part 30, rule 7; LCR Part 25, rule 7)
(1) A party intending to use an affidavit that has not been filed must serve it on each other interested party not later than a reasonable time before the occasion for using it arises.(2) A party who fails to serve an affidavit as required by subrule (1) may not use the affidavit except by leave of the court.
10.3 Service of originating process in Australia
(cf SCR Part 10, rule 2B)
(1) This rule applies to proceedings in the Supreme Court.(2) Subject to this Part, originating process may be served anywhere in Australia, whether in New South Wales or elsewhere.(3) An originating process for service in Australia, but outside New South Wales, must bear a statement either that the plaintiff intends to proceed under the Service and Execution of Process Act 1992 of the Commonwealth or that the plaintiff intends to proceed under the Uniform Civil Procedure Rules 2005.(4) The plaintiff may proceed otherwise than in accordance with the intention stated under subrule (3), but only with the leave of the court.
10.4 Operation of Service and Execution of Process Act 1992 of the Commonwealth
(cf SCR Part 9, rule 1A)
This Part does not limit the operation of the Service and Execution of Process Act 1992 of the Commonwealth or any other law of the Commonwealth.
Division 2 Manner of service
10.5 The various methods of service
(cf SCR Part 9, rules 3 and 4; DCR Part 8, rules 3, 9 and 12; LCR Part 7, rules 3, 9 and 12)
(1) Subject to these rules, a document may be served on a person:(a) by means of personal service, or(b) by posting a copy of the document, addressed to the person:(i) to the person’s address for service, or(ii) if the person is not an active party, to the person’s business or residential address, or(c) by leaving a copy of the document, addressed to the person:(i) at the person’s address for service, orwith a person who is apparently of or above the age of 16 years and apparently employed or residing at that address, or(ii) if the person is not an active party, at the person’s business or residential address,(d) in the case of service on a corporation, by serving the document on the corporation in any manner in which service of such a document may, by law, be served on the corporation.(2) In the case of a person having an address for service that is a solicitor’s office address, service of a document on the person may also be effected:(a) if the notice advising the address for service includes a DX address, by leaving a copy of the document, addressed to the solicitor, in that DX box at that address or in another DX box for transmission to that DX box, or(b) if the notice advising the address for service includes a fax number, by faxing a copy of the document to that number, or(c) if the notice advising the address for service includes an electronic service address, by transmitting an electronic copy of the document to that address.(3) Unless the contrary is proved, the time at which a document is taken to have been served is:(a) in the case of a document that is left in a DX box in accordance with subrule (2) (a), at the end of the second day following the day on which the copy is so left, or(b) in the case of a copy of a document that is faxed in accordance with subrule (2) (b), at the end of the first day following the day on which the copy is so faxed.Note—See section 14M of the Electronic Transactions Act 2000 as to when an electronic copy of a document is taken to have been delivered to an electronic mail address. See also Division 3 of this Part as to how personal service is to be effected.rule 10.5: Am 2005 (395), Sch 1 [19]; 2007 (579), Sch 1 [8].
10.6 Service in accordance with agreement between parties
(cf SCR Part 9, rule 9; DCR Part 8, rule 15; LCR Part 7, rule 15)
(1) In any proceedings, any document (including originating process) may be served by one party on another (whether in New South Wales or elsewhere) in accordance with any agreement, acknowledgment or undertaking by which the party to be served is bound.(2) Service in accordance with subrule (1) is taken for all purposes (including for the purposes of any rule requiring personal service) to constitute sufficient service.
10.7 Notice given or served by court
(cf SCR Part 9, rule 14)
Subject to any order of the court, any notice or other document that is required to be given to or served on any party by the court, or by any officer of the court, is taken to have been given or served if served in any manner in which a document not requiring personal service may be served under this Part.
10.8 Service of defence by court
(cf LCR Part 9, rule 3)
(1) This rule applies to proceedings in the Local Court.(2) When filing a defence, whether in person, by post or by use of an authorised DX system, a party must lodge additional copies of the defence for service on each of the other active parties.(3) On receiving such copies, an officer of the court:(a) must mark each copy with the date of acceptance of the document, and(b) must return one copy to the party by which it was filed, and(c) must cause the remaining copies to be served on each of the other active parties.
10.9 Service of process on defendant operating under unregistered business name
(cf SCR Part 64, rule 3; DCR Part 46, rule 2; LCR Part 35, rule 2)
(1) This rule applies to any proceedings against a person in respect of anything done or omitted to be done by the person in the course of, or in relation to, a business carried on under an unregistered business name.(2) For the purposes of any such proceedings, any document may be served on the defendant, whether sued in his or her own name or under the unregistered business name:(a) by leaving it with a person who is apparently engaged in the business, and apparently of or above the age of 16 years, at any place at which business is carried on under that name, orwhether or not the place concerned is within New South Wales.(b) by sending it by post, addressed to the defendant, to any place at which business is carried on under that name,(3) For the purposes of any such proceedings:(a) service of a document in accordance with subrule (2) is taken to constitute personal service, and(b) the place at which the document is left, or to which the document is sent by post, is taken to be the place of service of the document, and(c) in the case of a document sent by post, the document is taken to have been served at the end of 7 days after the day on which it was sent.(4) This rule does not limit any other law with respect to the service of documents.
10.10 Service of process on defendant operating under registered business name
(cf SCR Part 64, rule 3)
(1) This rule applies to any proceedings against a person carrying on business under a registered business name in respect of anything done or omitted to be done by the person in the course of, or in relation to, business carried on under that name.(2) For the purposes of any such proceedings, any document may be served on the defendant, whether sued in his or her own name or under the registered business name:(a) by leaving it with a person who is apparently engaged in the business, and apparently of or above the age of 16 years, at any place at which business is carried on under that name, orwhether or not the place concerned is within New South Wales.(b) by sending it by post, addressed to the defendant:(i) to any place at which business is carried on under that name, or(ii) to the address for service of any person in whose name the business name is registered under the Business Names Act 2002,(3) For the purposes of any such proceedings:(a) service of a document in accordance with subrule (2) is taken to constitute personal service, and(b) the place at which the document is left, or to which the document is sent by post, is taken to be the place of service of the document, and(c) in the case of a document sent by post, the document is taken to have been served at the end of 7 days after the day on which it was sent.(4) This rule does not limit any other law with respect to the service of documents.
10.11 Service of process on partner in limited partnership
(cf SCR Part 64, rule 3A)
(1) This rule applies to any proceedings against a partner in a limited partnership (within the meaning of Part 3 of the Partnership Act 1892) in respect of anything done or omitted to be done by any person in the course of, or in relation to, a business carried on by the partnership.(2) For the purposes of any such proceedings, any document may be served on the defendant, whether sued in his or her own name or under the firm-name of the partnership:(a) by leaving it with a person who is apparently engaged in the business, and apparently of or above the age of 16 years, at the registered office of the partnership, or(b) by sending it by post, addressed to the firm-name of the partnership, to the registered office of the partnership.(3) For the purposes of any such proceedings:(a) service of a document in accordance with subrule (2) is taken to constitute personal service, and(b) the place at which the document is left as referred to in subrule (2) (a), or to which the document is sent as referred to in subrule (2) (b), is taken to be the place of service of the document, and(c) in the case of a document sent as referred to in subrule (2) (b), the document is taken to have been served at the end of 7 days after the day on which it was sent.(4) This rule does not limit any other law with respect to the service of documents.
10.12 Service of process on person under legal incapacity
(cf SCR Part 63, rule 15)
(1) This rule applies to any proceedings in which a document is required to be served personally on a person under legal incapacity.(2) Personal service on a person under legal incapacity may not be effected otherwise than in accordance with this rule.(3) If the person under legal incapacity has a tutor in the proceedings, the document may be served on the tutor.(4) The document may be served on any person (including the person under legal incapacity) whom the court may, before or after service, approve.(5) If the person to be served is a minor and has no tutor in the proceedings, the document may be served:(a) on the person, but only if the person is aged 16 years or more, or(b) on a parent or guardian of the person, or(c) if the person has no parent or guardian, on a person with whom he or she resides or in whose care he or she is.(6) If the person to be served is a protected person (within the meaning of the Protected Estates Act 1983) and has no tutor in the proceedings, the document may be served:(a) if the person has a manager in respect of his or her estate, on the manager, or(b) if the person does not have a manager, on a person with whom he or she resides or in whose care he or she is.(7) Subject to subrule (8), a document served pursuant to this rule must be served in the manner required by these rules in relation to documents of the same kind.(8) In addition to any other service required by these rules:(a) a judgment or order requiring a person under legal incapacity to do, or refrain from doing, any act, and(b) a notice of motion for the committal of a person under legal incapacity, andmust be served personally on the person.(c) a subpoena addressed to a person under legal incapacity,(9) Subrule (8) does not apply to an order for interrogatories or for discovery or inspection of documents.
10.13 Acceptance of service by solicitor
(SCR Part 9, rule 7; DCR Part 8, rules 6 and 7; LCR Part 7, rules 6 and 7)
If a solicitor notes on a copy of:(a) any originating process, orthat he or she accepts service of the document on behalf of any person, the document is taken to have been duly served on that person on the date on which the note is made or on such earlier date of service as may be proved.(b) any other document required or permitted to be served in any proceedings, but not required to be personally served,
10.14 Substituted and informal service generally
(cf SCR Part 9, rules 10 and 11; DCR Part 8, rules 5 and 16; LCR Part 7, rules 5 and 16)
(1) If a document that is required or permitted to be served on a person in connection with any proceedings:(a) cannot practicably be served on the person, orthe court may, by order, direct that, instead of service, such steps be taken as are specified in the order for the purpose of bringing the document to the notice of the person concerned.(b) cannot practicably be served on the person in the manner provided by law,(2) An order under this rule may direct that the document be taken to have been served on the person concerned on the happening of a specified event or on the expiry of a specified time.(3) If steps have been taken, otherwise than under an order under this rule, for the purpose of bringing the document to the notice of the person concerned, the court may, by order, direct that the document be taken to have been served on that person on a date specified in the order.(4) Service in accordance with this rule is taken to constitute personal service.
10.15 Substituted and informal service of originating process in proceedings for possession of land
(cf SCR Part 9, rule 5)
(1) This rule applies to originating process that is required to be served on a defendant in connection with proceedings for the possession of land but that cannot be served on the defendant without undue delay or expense.(2) The court may order that the plaintiff may serve the originating process on the defendant by affixing a copy of the originating process to a conspicuous part of the land.(3) An order under subrule (2) may direct that the originating process be taken to have been served on the defendant on the expiry of a specified time.(4) If a copy of the originating process has been affixed to a conspicuous part of the land, otherwise than under an order under subrule (2), the court may order that the originating process be taken to have been served on the defendant on a date specified in the order.(5) A party may apply for an order under this rule without filing or serving notice of motion.(6) Service in accordance with this rule is taken to constitute personal service.
10.16 Service by filing
(cf SCR Part 9, rule 12)
(1) If in any proceedings any document is required or permitted to be served on:(a) a person who is in default of appearance, orthe filing of the document is taken to have the same effect as service of the document on the person unless the court orders otherwise.(b) a person who has entered an appearance but is not an active party in the proceedings,(2) This rule does not apply to any document that is required to be served personally.
10.17 Service of injunctions
(cf SCR Part 9, rule 15)
If the court grants an interlocutory injunction, the party may serve notice of the injunction by letter signed by or on behalf of the registrar.
10.18 Service at address for service in other court or tribunal
(cf SCR Part 9, rule 8)
If:(a) a decision is given or a case is stated in proceedings before any judicial officer or other person (the proceedings below), and(b) a party to the proceedings below (the subject party) has an address for service in New South Wales for the purposes of those proceedings at the office of a solicitor (the address below), and(c) proceedings (not being proceedings in relation to punishment for contempt) arising out of the proceedings below are commenced in the court (the new proceedings), anddocuments, including the originating process, may be served on the subject party at the address below, until the subject party has an address for service in the new proceedings, as if the address below were the subject party’s address for service in the new proceedings.(d) the plaintiff in the new proceedings has not received notice that the address below has ceased to be applicable,
10.19 Waiver of objection to service
(cf DCR Part 8, rule 5 (3))
A party who files a document in reply to a document alleged to have been served on that party is taken to have waived any objection to the fact or manner of service unless he or she files and serves notice of the objection together with the document so filed.
Division 3 Personal service
10.20 Personal service required only in certain circumstances
(cf SCR Part 9, rules 1 and 2; DCR Part 8, rule 3; LCR Part 7, rules 3 and 20)
(1) Any document required or permitted to be served on a person in any proceedings may be personally served, but need not be personally served unless these rules so require or the court so orders.(2) Except as otherwise provided by these rules:(a) any originating process, and any order for examination or garnishee order, in proceedings in the Supreme Court, the Land and Environment Court, the District Court or the Dust Diseases Tribunal must be personally served, and(b) any originating process in the Local Court must be served in one of the following ways:(i) it may be personally served on the defendant,(ii) it may be left, addressed to the defendant, at the defendant’s business or residential address, with a person who is apparently of or above the age of 16 years and apparently employed or residing at that address,(iii) if served by the Local Court, it may be sent by post, addressed to the defendant, to the defendant’s business or residential address in an envelope marked with a return address (being the address of the Local Court but not so identified), and(c) any order for examination, garnishee order or subpoena for attendance in proceedings in the Local Court must be served in one of the following ways:(i) it may be personally served on the person to whom it is directed,(ii) it may be left, addressed to the person to whom it is directed, at that person’s business or residential address, with a person who is apparently of or above the age of 16 years and apparently employed or residing at that address, and(d) any subpoena for production in proceedings in the District Court or the Local Court must be served in one of the following ways:(i) it may be served personally on the person to whom it is directed,(ii) it may be left, addressed to the person to whom it is directed, at that person’s business or residential address, with a person who is apparently of or above the age of 16 years and apparently employed or residing at that address,(iii) it may be sent by post, addressed to the person to whom it is directed, to the person’s business or residential address in an envelope marked with the return address of the party at whose request the subpoena was issued.Note—As to service by post, see section 76 of the Interpretation Act 1987.(3) If an envelope, posted as referred to in subrule (2) (b) (iii), is returned to the court by the postal authority as having not been delivered to the addressee:(a) service of the document contained in the envelope is taken not to have been effected, andand the registrar must so advise the party by whom or on whose behalf it was posted.(b) any judgment given or entered on the basis of that service is to be set aside,(4) Service of a subpoena in accordance with subrule (2) (c) (ii) or (d) (ii) or (iii) is taken to be personal service for the purposes of rule 33.5 (1).(5) Unless an earlier date is proved, a defendant who enters an appearance is taken to have been personally served with the relevant originating process on the date on which appearance was entered.rule 10.20: Am 2005 No 22, Sch 3 [3]; 2005 (395), Sch 1 [20]–[24]; 2008 (63), Sch 1 [1].
10.21 How personal service effected generally
(cf SCR Part 9, rule 3; DCR Part 8, rules 3 and 14; LCR Part 7, rules 3 and 14)
(1) Personal service of a document on a person is effected by leaving a copy of the document with the person or, if the person does not accept the copy, by putting the copy down in the person’s presence and telling the person the nature of the document.(2) If, by violence or threat of violence, a person attempting service is prevented from approaching another person for the purpose of delivering a document to the other person, the person attempting service may deliver the document to the other person by leaving it as near as practicable to that other person.(3) Service in accordance with subrule (2) is taken to constitute personal service.
10.22 Personal service on corporation
(cf SCR Part 9, rule 3; DCR Part 8, rule 12; LCR Part 7, rule 12)
Personal service of a document on a corporation is effected:(a) by personally serving the document on a principal officer of the corporation, or(b) by serving the document on the corporation in any other manner in which service of such a document may, by law, be served on the corporation.
10.23 Personal service on Crown Solicitor
(cf SCR Part 9, rule 3; DCR Part 8, rule 7A)
For the purposes of section 6 of the Crown Proceedings Act 1988, personal service of a document on the Crown Solicitor may be duly effected by leaving the document at the office of the Crown Solicitor with a person who is apparently a member of the Crown Solicitor’s staff.
10.24 Personal service on judicial officers
(cf SCR Part 9, rules 7A and 7B)
(1) In proceedings against a judicial officer, personal service of any document may be effected by leaving a copy of the document:(a) in the case of a judicial officer of the Supreme Court or District Court, at the office of the principal registrar of that Court, oraddressed, in either case, to the judicial officer on whom it is to be served.(b) in any other case, at the office of the senior judicial officer of the court at which the decision or determination was made,(2) In subrule (1), judicial officer includes an Assessor within the meaning of the Local Court Act 2007.rule 10.24: Am 2007 (501), Sch 1 [2]; 2007 (579), Sch 2 [2].
10.25 Personal service on inmate of correctional centre
(cf DCR Part 8, rule 11; LCR Part 7, rule 11)
(1) Personal service of a document on an inmate (within the meaning of the Crimes (Administration of Sentences) Act 1999) is effected by leaving a copy of the document, at the correctional centre at which the inmate is held in custody, with the governor of the correctional centre.(2) Personal service of a document on a detainee (within the meaning of the Children (Detention Centres) Act 1987) is effected by leaving a copy of the document, at the detention centre at which the detainee is held in custody, with the centre manager of the detention centre.
10.26 Personal service on person who “keeps house”
(cf DCR Part 8, rule 13; LCR Part 7, rule 13)
(1) If a person keeps house (that is, remains in premises to which a person attempting service cannot lawfully or practicably obtain access), the person attempting service may serve the document on the person keeping house:(a) by doing one of the following:(i) placing the document in the mail-box for the premises,(ii) affixing the document to an outer door of the premises,(iii) if the person attempting service cannot lawfully or practicably obtain access to any such mail-box or door, affixing the document to some part of the premises, or to some fence or wall surrounding the premises, as near as practicable to the principal door or entrance to the premises, and(b) within 24 hours after doing so, by posting a notice to the premises, addressed to the person keeping house, informing the person of the fact that the document has been so placed or affixed.(2) Service in accordance with subrule (1) is taken to constitute personal service.
10.27 Proof of identity
(cf SCR Part 9, rule 4A; DCR Part 8, rule 17; LCR Part 7, rule 17)
For the purposes of proof of service, evidence of a statement by a person of his or her identity or of his or her holding some office is evidence of his or her identity or that he or she holds that office, as the case may be.
Division 4 Service under particular Acts
pt 10, div 4 (rule 10.28): Ins 2007 (579), Sch 4 [3].
10.28 Service under the Confiscation of Proceeds of Crime Act 1989
In any proceedings in which notice under the Confiscation of Proceeds of Crime Act 1989 is required to be given in accordance with rules of court, the notice is to be given by filing it, and serving it on:(a) all active parties, andas soon as practicable after it has been filed.(b) all other persons to whom it is required by that Act to be given,pt 10, div 4 (rule 10.28): Ins 2007 (579), Sch 4 [3].
Part 11 Service of documents outside Australia and service of external process
pt 11, hdg: Subst 2006 (391), Sch 1 [4].
Division 1 General
11.1 Application of Part
(1) This Part applies to proceedings in the Supreme Court.(2) For the purposes of this Part, a reference to Australia includes a reference to the external Territories.
11.2 Cases for service of originating process
(cf SCR Part 10, rule 1A)
Originating process may be served outside Australia in the circumstances referred to in Schedule 6.
11.3 Notice to the defendant served outside Australia
(cf SCR Part 10, rule 2A)
If originating process is intended to be served on a defendant outside Australia, a notice to that effect must be included in the originating process.
11.4 Leave for plaintiff to proceed where no appearance by defendant
(cf SCR Part 10, rule 2)
(1) If originating process is served on a defendant outside Australia, and the defendant does not enter an appearance, the plaintiff may not proceed against the defendant except by leave of the Supreme Court.(2) A motion for leave under subrule (1) may be made without serving notice of motion on the defendant.
11.5 Service of documents other than originating process
(cf SCR Part 10, rule 3)
Service outside Australia of a document other than originating process is valid only if it is effected pursuant to the leave of the Supreme Court or is subsequently confirmed by the Supreme Court.
11.6 Mode of service
(cf SCR Part 10, rule 5)
A document to be served outside Australia need not be personally served on a person so long as it is served on the person in accordance with the law of the country in which service is effected.
11.7 Setting aside originating process served outside Australia
(cf SCR Part 10, rule 6A)
(1) The Supreme Court may make an order of a kind referred to in rule 12.11 (Setting aside originating process etc) on application by a defendant on whom originating process is served outside Australia.(2) Without limiting subrule (1), the Supreme Court may make an order under this rule:(a) on the ground that the service of the originating process is not authorised by these rules, or(b) on the ground that the court is an inappropriate forum for the trial of the proceedings.
11.8 Operation of Commonwealth laws
(cf SCR Part 10, rule 6)
This Part does not require the leave of the Supreme Court for any service or other thing that may be effected or done under any law of the Commonwealth.
Division 2 Service outside Australia in accordance with Attorney General’s arrangements
11.9 Definitions
(cf SCR Part 10, rule 7)
In this Division:applicant means the person by whom an application is made under rule 11.10 (1) (a).participating country means:(a) any country that is a signatory to an international convention with respect to the service of documents in that country to which Australia is a signatory, or(b) in relation to particular proceedings, any other country declared by the Attorney General, by notice filed in the proceedings, to be a country to which this Division applies.undertaking as to expenses means an undertaking by an applicant or his or her solicitor to pay to the registrar an amount equal to the sum of all expenses incurred in consequence of the request for service.
11.10 Filing of requisite documents
(cf SCR Part 10, rules 8, 9 and 10)
(1) A person requiring a document to be served in a participating country may file the following documents in the Supreme Court:(a) an application to the principal registrar of the Supreme Court that a sealed copy of a document be transmitted to that country for service on the person specified in the application as the person to be served,(b) if the applicant requires service of the document under an international convention with respect to the service of documents to which that country and Australia are both signatories, a statement to that effect,(c) the document to be served and (unless English is an official language of the country concerned) a translation of the document,(d) if any special manner of service is required, a request for service in that manner and (unless English is an official language of the country concerned) a translation of the request,together with such further copies of those documents as the principal registrar may direct.(e) an undertaking as to expenses,(2) A translation of a document referred to in subrule (1):(a) must be in an official language of the country in which service is required, and(b) must bear a certificate by the translator, in that language, stating his or her qualifications and certifying that the translation is a correct translation of the document.
11.11 Procedure on filing and lodgment
(cf SCR Part 10, rules 11 and 12)
(1) After all relevant documents have been filed as referred to in rule 11.10, the principal registrar of the Supreme Court must seal them and send the lodged documents to the Director-General of the Attorney General’s Department for transmission for service, together with such letter of request (if any) as may be necessary.(2) A certificate as to service, attempted service or non-service of any document so sent that is issued by:(a) a judicial authority or other responsible person in the country concerned, oris evidence of the matters stated in the certificate.(b) a British or Australian consular authority in the country concerned,
11.12 Recovery of unpaid expenses
(cf SCR Part 10, rule 13)
If an applicant who has given an undertaking as to expenses does not, within 7 days after service on the applicant of an account of expenses incurred in relation to his or her application, pay to the principal registrar of the Supreme Court the amount of the expenses, the Supreme Court:(a) may order the applicant to pay the amount of the expenses to the principal registrar, and(b) may stay the proceedings, until payment is made, so far as concerns the whole or any part of any claim for relief by the applicant.
Division 3 Service of external process
pt 11, div 3: Ins 2006 (391), Sch 1 [5].
11.13 Application
(cf SCR Part 57, rule 1)
This Part applies to the service in the State of any document that is required in connection with civil proceedings pending before a court outside the State, where:(a) a letter of request from the court has been received by the principal registrar of the Supreme Court, and(b) either:(i) the request is for service pursuant to a convention, or(ii) the Attorney General, or some other person authorised by the Attorney General for the purposes of this rule, certifies that effect ought to be given to the request.rule 11.13: Ins 2006 (391), Sch 1 [5]. Am 2007 (501), Sch 1 [2]; 2008 (494), Sch 1 [5].
11.14 Requisite documents
(cf SCR Part 57, rule 2)
In order that service may be effected in accordance with this Part, the following documents must be delivered to the principal registrar of the Supreme Court, unless the principal registrar otherwise directs:(a) the document to be served and 2 copies of it,(b) a copy of the letter of request,(c) if the document or letter is not in English, a translation of it in English and a copy of the translation.rules 11.14–11.17: Ins 2006 (391), Sch 1 [5]. Am 2007 (501), Sch 1 [2].
11.15 Service
(cf SCR Part 57, rule 3)
(1) The principal registrar of the Supreme Court is to request the Sheriff or some other person to serve the document concerned.(2) The document may be served in any manner in which originating process in proceedings in the Supreme Court may be served, including substituted service pursuant to rule 10.14.(3) Proceedings for an order for substituted service may be commenced only by the Attorney General.rules 11.14–11.17: Ins 2006 (391), Sch 1 [5]. Am 2007 (501), Sch 1 [2].
11.16 Affidavit of service
(cf SCR Part 57, rule 4)
(1) After the document has been served or attempts to serve the document have failed, the Sheriff or other person requested to serve the document must make an affidavit of service, and lodge it together with such further copies of the affidavit as the principal registrar of the Supreme Court may direct.(2) The affidavit must state when, where and how service was effected or attempted, and the costs incurred in connection with the service or attempted service.rules 11.14–11.17: Ins 2006 (391), Sch 1 [5]. Am 2007 (501), Sch 1 [2].
11.17 Certificate
(cf SCR Part 57, rule 5)
(1) If the request for service is made pursuant to a convention, the principal registrar of the Supreme Court must give either:(a) a certificate complying with subrule (2), or(b) such other certificate as is appropriate to the terms of the relevant convention.(2) A certificate referred to in subrule (1) (a):(a) must certify:(i) that the document or a copy of it was served on the person at the time, and in the manner, specified in the certificate, or(ii) if attempts to effect service failed, that service has failed and the reasons for the failure, and(b) must certify the amount of the costs incurred.(3) If the request for service is made otherwise than pursuant to a convention, the principal registrar of the Supreme Court must give either:(a) a certificate complying with subrule (4), or(b) such other certificate as is appropriate to the terms of the letter of request.(4) A certificate referred to in subrule (3) (a):(a) must annex the letter of request, a copy of the document to be served and of any translation, and a copy of the affidavit under rule 11.16, and(b) must identify the annexures, and(c) must certify:(i) that the manner of service of the document and the proof of service are such as are required by these rules in relation to the service of originating process of the Supreme Court, or(ii) if attempts to effect service failed, that service has failed and the reasons for the failure, and(d) must certify the amount of the costs incurred.(5) In each case, the certificate is to be sealed with the seal of the Supreme Court.(6) The principal registrar of the Supreme Court must send the certificate to the Director-General of the Attorney General’s Department or, if the letter of request or any relevant convention so requires, to the appropriate consul or other authority.rules 11.14–11.17: Ins 2006 (391), Sch 1 [5]. Am 2007 (501), Sch 1 [2].
Part 12 Discontinuance, withdrawal, dismissal and setting aside of originating process
Division 1 Discontinuance of claim
12.1 Discontinuance of proceedings
(cf SCR Part 21, rules 2 and 5; DCR Part 18, rule 1; LCR Part 17, rule 1)
(1) The plaintiff in any proceedings may, by filing a notice of discontinuance, discontinue the proceedings, either as to all claims for relief or as to all claims for relief so far as they concern a particular defendant:(a) with the consent of each other active party in the proceedings, or(b) with the leave of the court.(2) A notice of discontinuance:(a) must bear a certificate by the plaintiff, or by his or her solicitor, to the effect that the plaintiff does not represent any other person, and(b) except where it is filed with the leave of the court, must be accompanied by a notice from each party whose consent is required by subrule (1) to the effect that the party consents to the proceedings being discontinued in accordance with the notice of discontinuance.(3) If any such consent is given on terms, those terms are to be incorporated in the notice of consent.(4) If any party has not been served with the originating process, the plaintiff must file an affidavit to that effect.(5) For the purposes of this rule, proceedings on a cross-claim are taken to be different proceedings to the proceedings on the originating process and to proceedings on any other cross-claim.rule 12.1: Am 2005 (625), Sch 1 [11]; 2005 (717), Sch 1 [4] [5]; 2006 (716), Sch 1 [10].
12.2 (Repealed)
rule 12.2: Rep 2005 (717), Sch 1 [6].
12.3 Effect of discontinuance
(cf SCR Part 21, rule 7; DCR Part 18, rule 7; LCR Part 17, rule 8)
(1) A discontinuance of proceedings with respect to a plaintiff’s claim for relief does not prevent the plaintiff from claiming the same relief in fresh proceedings.(2) Subrule (1) is subject to the terms of any consent to the discontinuance or of any leave to discontinue.
12.4 Stay of further proceedings to secure costs of discontinued proceedings
(cf SCR Part 21, rule 8; DCR Part 18, rule 8; LCR Part 17, rule 9)
If:(a) as a consequence of the discontinuance of proceedings, a plaintiff is liable to pay the costs of another party in relation to those proceedings, andthe court may stay the further proceedings until those costs are paid and may make such consequential orders as it thinks fit.(b) before payment of the costs, the plaintiff commences further proceedings against that other party on the same or substantially the same cause of action as that on which the former proceedings were commenced,Note—See also section 67 of the Civil Procedure Act 2005 as to the terms on which a stay may be granted, and rule 42.19 as to costs payable in relation to discontinued proceedings.
Division 2 Withdrawal of appearance or pleading
12.5 Withdrawal of appearance
(cf SCR Part 21, rule 1)
An active party may withdraw an appearance by leave of the court.
12.6 Withdrawal of matter in defence or subsequent pleading
(cf SCR Part 21, rules 3 and 5; DCR Part 18, rule 2; LCR Part 17, rule 2)
(1) A party raising any matter in a defence or subsequent pleading may withdraw the matter at any time.(2) Despite subrule (1), a party may not withdraw any admission, or any other matter that operates for the benefit of another party, except with the consent of the other party or by leave of the court.(3) A withdrawal under this rule is to be made by filing a notice of withdrawal stating the extent of the withdrawal.(4) If the withdrawal is by consent, the notice under subrule (3) must be accompanied by a notice from each party whose consent is required by subrule (2) to the effect that the party consents to the admission or other matter being withdrawn in accordance with the notice of withdrawal.
Division 3 Dismissal of proceedings etc for lack of progress
12.7 Dismissal of proceedings etc for want of due despatch
(cf SCR Part 5, rule 12, Part 32A, rules 1 and 2; DCR Part 18, rules 3 and 9; LCR Part 17, rule 4)
(1) If a plaintiff does not prosecute the proceedings with due despatch, the court may order that the proceedings be dismissed or make such other order as the court thinks fit.(2) If the defendant does not conduct the defence with due despatch, the court may strike out the defence, either in whole or in part, or make such other order as the court thinks fit.Note—See rule 42.20 as to the effect of dismissal with respect to costs.rule 12.7: Am 2005 (395), Sch 1 [25].
12.8 Additional grounds for dismissal of proceedings by Supreme Court or Land and Environment Court
(cf SCR Part 32A, rules 1 and 2)
(1) This rule applies to proceedings in the Supreme Court or the Land and Environment Court.(2) The court may, of its own motion, make an order dismissing the proceedings if it appears from the court’s records that, for over 5 months, no party to the proceedings has taken any step in the proceedings.(3) Such an order may not be made:(a) if the proceedings, or any part of the proceedings, are listed for a future date, or(b) if there are any notices of motion or other applications in the proceedings that are yet to be determined, or(c) if a party satisfies the court that such an order should not be made.(4) Before such an order is made, notice of the proposed order is to be given to the plaintiff and to each other active party, being a notice that gives each of them a reasonable opportunity to be heard in relation to the proposal.(5) Such a notice is to be sent by post, addressed to the person to whom it is directed:(a) at the person’s address for service, orin an envelope marked with the court’s return address.(b) if the person has no address for service, at the person’s last known address,(6) A notice, posted as referred to in subrule (5), is taken to have been received by the person to whom it was addressed even if it is returned to the court as having not been delivered to the addressee.rule 12.8: Am 2005 (395), Sch 1 [26] [27]. Subst 2005 (625), Sch 1 [12]. Am 2007 (580), Sch 1 [3] [4].
12.9 Additional grounds for dismissal of proceedings by District Court or Local Court
(1) This rule applies to proceedings in the District Court or the Local Court that have been commenced by statement of claim or in which a statement of claim has been filed.(2) The court may, of its own motion, make an order dismissing the proceedings if:(a) a defence or cross-claim is not filed, or(b) an application for default judgment is not filed, orwithin 9 months after the statement of claim is filed.(c) the proceedings are not otherwise disposed of,(3) Such an order may be made without notice to the plaintiff or any other party.(4) Such an order may not be made if there are any notices of motion or other applications in the proceedings that are yet to be determined.rule 12.9: Am 2007 (327), Sch 1 [1].
12.10 Stay of further proceedings to secure costs of proceedings dismissed
(cf SCR Part 40, rule 8 (2); DCR Part 18, rule 8; LCR Part 17, rule 9)
If:(a) as a consequence of the dismissal of proceedings, a party is liable to pay the costs of another party in relation to those proceedings, andthe court may stay the further proceedings until those costs are paid and make such consequential orders as it thinks fit.(b) before payment of the costs, the party commences further proceedings against that other party on the same or substantially the same cause of action, or for the same or substantially the same relief, as that on or for which the former proceedings were commenced,Note—See also section 67 of the Civil Procedure Act 2005 as to the terms on which a stay may be granted, and rule 42.20 as to costs payable in relation to proceedings that are dismissed.
Division 4 Setting aside originating process
12.11 Setting aside originating process etc
(cf SCR Part 11, rule 8)
(1) In any proceedings, the court may make any of the following orders on the application of a defendant:(a) an order setting aside the originating process,(b) an order setting aside the service of the originating process on the defendant,(c) an order declaring that the originating process has not been duly served on the defendant,(d) an order discharging:(i) any order giving leave to serve the originating process outside New South Wales, or(ii) any order confirming service of the originating process outside New South Wales,(e) an order discharging any order extending the validity for service of the originating process,(f) an order protecting or releasing:(i) property seized, or threatened with seizure, in the proceedings, or(ii) property subject to an order restraining its disposal or in relation to which such an order is sought,(g) an order declaring that the court has no jurisdiction over the defendant in respect of the subject-matter of the proceedings,(h) an order declining to exercise jurisdiction in the proceedings,(i) an order granting such other relief as the court thinks appropriate.(2) Such an order may not be made unless notice of motion to apply for the order is filed by the defendant within the time limited for the defendant to enter an appearance in the proceedings.(3) Notice of motion under subrule (2):(a) may be filed without entering an appearance, and(b) must bear a note stating the applicant’s address for service.(4) The making of an application for an order under subrule (1) does not constitute submission to the jurisdiction of the court.
Part 13 Summary disposal
13.1 Summary judgment
(cf SCR Part 13, rule 2; DCR Part 11A, rule 2; LCR Part 10A, rule 2)
(1) If, on application by the plaintiff in relation to the plaintiff’s claim for relief or any part of the plaintiff’s claim for relief:(a) there is evidence of the facts on which the claim or part of the claim is based, andthe court may give such judgment for the plaintiff, or make such order on the claim or that part of the claim, as the case requires.(b) there is evidence, given by the plaintiff or by some responsible person, that, in the belief of the person giving the evidence, the defendant has no defence to the claim or part of the claim, or no defence except as to the amount of any damages claimed,(2) Without limiting subrule (1), the court may give judgment for the plaintiff for damages to be assessed.(3) In this rule, a reference to damages includes a reference to the value of goods.
13.2 Stay of judgment pending determination of cross-claim
(cf SCR Part 13, rule 3; DCR Part 11A, rule 2A)
If the court gives judgment against a party under rule 13.1, and that party has made a cross-claim against the party obtaining the judgment, the court may stay enforcement of the judgment until determination of the cross-claim.
13.3 Continuation of proceedings following partial judgment
(cf SCR Part 13, rule 6; DCR Part 11A, rule 4; LCR Part 10A, rule 4)
If, in any proceedings:(a) a party applies for judgment, andthe proceedings may be continued as regards any claim or part of a claim not disposed of by the judgment.(b) the proceedings are not wholly disposed of by the judgment,
13.4 Frivolous and vexatious proceedings
(cf SCR Part 13, rule 5; DCR Part 11A, rule 3; LCR Part 10A, rule 3)
(1) If in any proceedings it appears to the court that in relation to the proceedings generally or in relation to any claim for relief in the proceedings:(a) the proceedings are frivolous or vexatious, or(b) no reasonable cause of action is disclosed, orthe court may order that the proceedings be dismissed generally or in relation to that claim.(c) the proceedings are an abuse of the process of the court,(2) The court may receive evidence on the hearing of an application for an order under subrule (1).
13.5 Continuation of proceedings following partial dismissal
(cf SCR Part 13, rule 6; DCR Part 11A, rule 4; LCR Part 10A, rule 4)
If, in any proceedings:(a) a party applies for an order for dismissal of proceedings, andthe proceedings may be continued as regards any claim or part of a claim not disposed of by dismissal.(b) the proceedings are not wholly disposed of by dismissal,
13.6 Non-appearance by plaintiff
(cf SCR Part 13, rule 5A)
(1) If there is no attendance by or on behalf of a plaintiff at a hearing of which the plaintiff has had due notice, the court may adjourn the hearing to another date and direct that not less than 5 days before that date a notice of the adjournment be served on the plaintiff advising that the proceedings may be dismissed if there is no attendance by or on behalf of the plaintiff at the adjourned hearing.(2) If the plaintiff has been given notice in accordance with subrule (1) and there is no attendance by or on behalf of the plaintiff at the adjourned hearing, the court may dismiss the proceedings.(3) This rule does not restrict any other power of the court to dismiss proceedings.rule 13.6: Ins 2005 (395), Sch 1 [28].
Part 14 Pleadings
Division 1 Preliminary
14.1 Application
This Part applies to proceedings commenced by statement of claim and to proceedings in which a statement of claim has been filed.
Division 2 Defence and further pleadings
14.2 Trial without further pleadings
(cf SCR Part 15, rule 2)
(1) If in the opinion of the court:(a) the issues between the parties can be defined without further pleadings, orthe court may order that the proceedings be so tried.(b) for any other reason the proceedings may properly be tried without further pleadings,(2) A court that makes an order under subrule (1) may direct the parties to prepare a statement of the issues involved in the proceedings or, if the parties do not agree on a statement, may settle a statement itself.
14.3 Defence
(cf SCR Part 15, rule 3; DCR Part 10, rule 1; LCR Part 9, rule 1)
(1) Subject to these rules, the time limited for a defendant to file a defence is 28 days after service on the defendant of the statement of claim or such other time as the court directs for the filing of a defence.(2) If, before the defendant files a defence, a notice of motion for summary judgment under rule 13.1 is served on the defendant, but the court does not on that motion dispose of all of the claims for relief against the defendant, the court may fix a time within which the defendant must file a defence.Note—See rule 9.11 (2) under which a defence to a cross-claim for contribution under section 5 of the Law Reform (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1946 may not be filed unless the court so directs.
14.4 Reply
(cf SCR Part 15, rule 4)
(1) In proceedings in the Supreme Court or the District Court, a plaintiff may file a reply to a defence.(2) In proceedings in the Local Court, a plaintiff may file a reply to a defence only by leave of the Court.(3) The time limited for the plaintiff to file a reply is 14 days after service of the defence on the plaintiff.
14.5 Further pleadings
(cf SCR Part 15, rule 5)
(1) Except by leave of the court, a party to proceedings may not file any pleading subsequent to a reply.(2) The time limited for a party to seek leave to file a pleading subsequent to a reply (the further pleading) is 14 days after service on the party of the pleading to which further pleading responds.
Division 3 Form of pleading generally
14.6 Pleadings to be divided into paragraphs
(cf SCR Part 15, rule 6; DCR Part 9, rule 2)
If a pleading alleges or otherwise deals with several matters:(a) the pleading must be divided into paragraphs, and(b) each matter must, so far as convenient, be put in a separate paragraph, and(c) the paragraphs must be numbered consecutively.
14.7 Pleadings to contain facts, not evidence
(cf SCR Part 15, rule 7; DCR Part 9, rule 3)
Subject to this Part, Part 6 and Part 15, a party’s pleading must contain only a summary of the material facts on which the party relies, and not the evidence by which those facts are to be proved.
14.8 Pleadings to be brief
(cf SCR Part 15, rule 8; DCR Part 9, rule 4)
A pleading must be as brief as the nature of the case allows.
14.9 References in pleadings to documents and spoken words
(cf SCR Part 15, rule 9; DCR Part 9, rule 5)
If any documents or spoken words are referred to in a pleading:(a) the effect of the document or spoken words must, so far as material, be stated, and(b) the precise terms of the document or spoken words must not be stated, except so far as those terms are themselves material.
14.10 Certain facts need not be pleaded
(cf SCR Part 15, rule 10; DCR Part 9, rule 6)
A party need not plead a fact if:(a) the fact is presumed by law to be true, orexcept so far as may be necessary to meet a specific denial of that fact by another party’s pleading.(b) the burden of disproving the fact lies on the opposite party,
14.11 Conditions precedent presumed to have been met
(cf SCR Part 15, rule 11; DCR Part 9, rule 7)
If it is a condition precedent necessary for a party’s case in any pleading that:(a) a thing has been done, or(b) an event has happened, or(c) a state of affairs exists, or has existed at some time or times, ora statement to the effect that the condition has been satisfied is taken to be implied in the party’s pleading.(d) the party is ready and willing, or was at all material times ready and willing, to perform an obligation,
14.12 Pleading of facts in short form in certain money claims
(cf SCR Part 15, rule 12; DCR Part 9, rule 8)
(1) Subject to this rule, if the plaintiff claims money payable by the defendant to the plaintiff for any of the following:(a) goods sold and delivered by the plaintiff to the defendant,(b) goods bargained and sold by the plaintiff to the defendant,(c) work done or materials provided by the plaintiff for the defendant at the defendant’s request,(d) money lent by the plaintiff to the defendant,(e) money paid by the plaintiff for the defendant at the defendant’s request,(f) money had and received by the defendant for the plaintiff’s use,(g) interest on money due from the defendant to the plaintiff, and forborne at interest by the plaintiff at the defendant’s request,it is sufficient to plead the facts concerned in short form (that is, by using the form of words set out in the relevant paragraph above).(h) money found to be due from the defendant to the plaintiff on accounts stated between them,(2) The defendant may file a notice requiring the plaintiff to plead the facts on which he or she relies in full (that is, in accordance with the provisions of this Part other than this rule).(3) Such a notice must be filed within the time limited for the filing of the defence.(4) If the defendant files a notice under this rule:(a) the plaintiff must, within 28 days after service of the notice:(i) file an amended statement of claim pleading the facts on which he or she relies in full, and(ii) include in the amended statement of claim a note to the effect that the statement has been amended in response to the notice, and(b) if a defence has not been filed, the time limited for the filing of defence is extended until 14 days after service on the defendant of the plaintiff’s amended statement of claim.
14.13 Pleading not to claim an amount for unliquidated damages
(cf SCR Part 15, rule 12A; LCR Part 5, rule 1)
(1) A pleading must not claim an amount for unliquidated damages.(2) Despite subrule (1), a pleading in proceedings in the District Court or in the Local Court may claim an amount for unliquidated damages if:(a) the claim is for the recovery of:(i) the cost of repair to a motor vehicle, or(ii) the value, less any salvage value, of a motor vehicle, orwhere the repair, loss or towing is a consequence of damage alleged to have been sustained as a result of the negligence of the defendant or the defendant’s servant or agent, or(iii) the towing of a motor vehicle,(b) the claim is for the recovery of:(i) the cost of repair to property other than a motor vehicle, orwhere the repair or loss is a consequence of damage alleged to have been sustained as a result of the negligence of the defendant or the defendant’s servant or agent in driving, riding or controlling a motor vehicle.(ii) the value, less any salvage value, of property other than a motor vehicle,(3) In subrule (2), a reference to a motor vehicle is a reference to a motor vehicle within the meaning of the Motor Accidents Compensation Act 1999, and includes a reference to a trailer within the meaning of that Act.
14.14 General rule as to matters to be pleaded specifically
(cf SCR Part 15, rule 13; DCR Part 9, rule 9)
(1) In a statement of claim, the plaintiff must plead specifically any matter that, if not pleaded specifically, may take the defendant by surprise.(2) In a defence or subsequent pleading, a party must plead specifically any matter:(a) that, if not pleaded specifically, may take the opposite party by surprise, or(b) that the party alleges makes any claim, defence or other case of the opposite party not maintainable, or(c) that raises matters of fact not arising out of the preceding pleading.(3) Matters which must be pleaded pursuant to subrule (2) include (but are not limited to) fraud, performance, release, statute of limitation, extinction of right or title, voluntary assumption of risk, causation of accident by unknown and undiscoverable mechanical defect and facts showing illegality.
14.15 Pleadings concerning possession of land
(cf SCR Part 15, rule 15)
(1) This rule applies to proceedings on a claim for possession of land.(2) The plaintiff must plead specifically the following matters:(a) the nature of any instrument (such as a certificate of title, conveyance, will, trust instrument, mortgage or lease) from which the plaintiff’s claim is alleged to be derived,(b) if any such instrument is alleged to impose an obligation on the defendant whose breach has given rise to the plaintiff’s claim (such as an obligation to pay money to the plaintiff), the existence of that obligation and the occurrence of any such breach,(c) if any such instrument is alleged to confer a right on the plaintiff that vests at a specified time or is contingent on the occurrence of a specified event, the existence of that right and the occurrence of any such time or event,(d) if the plaintiff’s right to possession arises from the defendant’s failure to pay money to the plaintiff, particulars of the date on which the failure began, the amount of money currently unpaid and the method by which that amount has been calculated,(e) if the plaintiff’s right to possession arises from any other act or omission by the defendant, particulars of the date on which the act or omission occurred and the nature of the act or omission,(f) if the plaintiff’s right to possession is not exercisable until the plaintiff has given notice to the defendant of the plaintiff’s intention to exercise that right, the date on which, and the terms in which, such notice was given.(3) The defendant must plead specifically every ground of defence on which he or she relies, including:(a) any claim for relief against forfeiture, and(b) any claim for rectification, andand it is not sufficient for a defendant to merely state that he or she is in possession of the land (whether personally or by a tenant) and relies on that possession.(c) any claim for relief under the Contracts Review Act 1980,
14.16 Defendant’s pleading of contributory negligence
(cf SCR Part 15, rule 14; DCR Part 9, rule 10)
A defendant who relies on contributory negligence must plead specifically the contributory negligence.
14.17 New matter may be raised in pleading
(cf SCR Part 15, rule 16; DCR Part 9, rule 11)
A party may plead any matter even if the matter has arisen after the commencement of the proceedings.
14.18 Pleadings to be consistent as to allegations of fact
(cf SCR Part 15, rule 17; DCR Part 9, rule 12)
(1) A party must not in any pleading make an allegation of fact, or raise any ground or claim, inconsistent with any of his or her previous pleadings.(2) Subrule (1) does not affect the right of a party to make allegations of fact, or raise grounds or claims, in the alternative.
14.19 Pleadings may raise points of law
(cf SCR Part 15, rule 18; DCR Part 9, rule 13)
A pleading may raise any point of law.
14.20 Pleading the general issue
(cf SCR Part 15, rule 27)
A pleading may not plead the general issue.
14.21 Pleadings concerning claims under Property (Relationships) Act 1984
A pleading with respect to a claim for relief under section 20 (1) of the Property (Relationships) Act 1984 must plead specifically any contribution referred to in that subsection on which the plaintiff relies.
Division 4 Verification of pleadings
14.22 Pleadings in proceedings for defamation, malicious prosecution, false imprisonment, death and personal injury
(cf SCR Part 15, rule 23 (16) and (17))
(1) This Division does not apply to pleadings in proceedings for the recovery of damages for:(a) defamation, or(b) malicious prosecution, or(c) false imprisonment, or(d) trespass to the person, or(e) death, or(f) personal injury.(2) Despite subrule (1), the court may order that this Division is to apply to any or all pleadings in any such proceedings (including pleadings filed before the order is made) with such variations (if any) as the court may direct.
14.23 Verification of certain pleadings
(cf SCR Part 15, rule 23 (1)–(7); DCR Part 10, rule 2 (1)–(6))
(1) This rule applies to proceedings in the Supreme Court and the District Court.(2) A party’s pleading (including any amendment of the pleading) must be verified by affidavit.Note—See rule 35.3 as to who may make such an affidavit.(3) The affidavit verifying a pleading must state:(a) as to any allegations of fact in the pleading, that the deponent believes that the allegations are true, and(b) as to any allegations of fact that the pleading denies, that the deponent believes that the allegations are untrue, and(c) as to any allegations of fact that the pleading does not admit, that after reasonable inquiry the deponent does not know whether or not the allegations are true.(4) If the deponent is unable to make an affidavit that complies with subrule (3) in relation to all parts of a pleading, the affidavit may comply with so much of that subrule as can be complied with and state why the affidavit does not comply with the remainder of that subrule.(5) Subject to any order of the court, an affidavit made in accordance with subrule (4) is taken to comply with subrule (3).(6) Unless the court otherwise orders, the affidavit verifying a pleading must be subscribed to the pleading.rule 14.23: Am 2006 (716), Sch 1 [11].
14.24 Court may order pleadings to be further verified
(cf SCR Part 15, rule 23 (8)–(14); DCR Part 10, rule 2 (7)–(10))
(1) Within 14 days after service of an affidavit under rule 14.23 in relation to a pleading, a party may apply to the court for a direction that the party pleading verify or further verify the pleading and for such other directions as may be appropriate.(2) If a party applies to the court under subrule (1), the court may direct the party pleading to file such further affidavit (if any), by such deponent and as to such facts as the court may determine.(3) The court may, by order, grant leave to a party to file, instead of an affidavit complying with rule 14.23 (3), an affidavit by such deponent and as to such facts as the court may determine.
Division 5 General
14.25 Defence of tender
(cf SCR Part 15, rule 24; DCR Part 10, rule 1A; LCR Part 9, rule 1)
(1) If, in proceedings on a liquidated claim, a defence of tender before commencement of the proceedings is pleaded, the tender is not available as a defence unless and until the amount has been paid into court.(2) In the case of a tender to which section 224 of the Customs Act 1901 of the Commonwealth applies:(a) subrule (1) does not apply to a defence that pleads the tender, and(b) the amount tendered may be paid into court when the defence is filed.(3) On paying the money into court, the defendant must file notice of the payment into court and serve the notice on each other party to the proceedings.(4) The plaintiff may accept the money by filing a notice of acceptance.(5) If the plaintiff accepts the money, the proceedings are to be stayed in relation to the defence of tender.(6) Whether or not accepted, the money must not be paid out except by order of the court.
14.26 Admission and traverse from pleadings
(cf SCR Part 15, rule 20, Part 63, rule 9; DCR Part 9, rule 14, Part 45, rule 9)
(1) An allegation of fact made by a party in a pleading is taken to be admitted by any opposite party required to plead in response unless:(a) in the pleading in response, the opposite party traverses the allegation, or(b) a joinder of issues under rule 14.27 operates as a denial of the allegation.(2) A traverse may be made by denial or by a statement of non-admission, either expressly or by necessary implication, and either generally or as to any particular allegation.(3) Despite subrule (1), a pleading in response to a pleading that alleges the suffering of damage or an amount of damages is taken to traverse the allegation unless it specifically admits the allegation.(4) Subrule (1) does not apply to an opposite party who is a person under a legal incapacity.rule 14.26: Am 2006 (716), Sch 1 [12].
14.27 Joinder of issue
(cf SCR Part 15, rule 21; DCR Part 9, rule 15)
(1) A pleading may expressly join issue on a previous pleading.(2) If there is no reply by a plaintiff to a defence, there is an implied joinder of issue on that defence.(3) If there is no answer by the opposite party to a reply or subsequent pleading, there is an implied joinder of issue on the reply or subsequent pleading.(4) There can be no joinder of issue, express or implied, on a statement of claim.(5) An implied joinder of issue on a pleading operates as a denial of every allegation of fact made in the pleading.(6) An express joinder of issue on a pleading operates as a denial of every allegation of fact made in the pleading other than an allegation that is expressly admitted.
14.28 Circumstances in which court may strike out pleadings
(cf SCR Part 15, rule 26; DCR Part 9, rule 17; LCR Part 8, rule 3)
(1) The court may at any stage of the proceedings order that the whole or any part of a pleading be struck out if the pleading:(a) discloses no reasonable cause of action or defence or other case appropriate to the nature of the pleading, or(b) has a tendency to cause prejudice, embarrassment or delay in the proceedings, or(c) is otherwise an abuse of the process of the court.(2) The court may receive evidence on the hearing of an application for an order under subrule (1).
14.29 Defence of extinction of right or title
(cf SCR Part 5, rule 5B)
For the purposes of section 68A of the Limitation Act 1969, a claim by the defendant that a right or title has been extinguished under Division 1 of Part 4 of that Act may be made by affidavit or by notice.
Division 6 Pleadings concerning defamation
Note—
The Defamation Act 2005 applies to the publication of defamatory matter after the commencement of that Act. The Act commenced on 1 January 2006. However, the Defamation Act 1974 (as in force before its repeal by the Defamation Act 2005) continues to apply to the following causes of action by virtue of clause 2 (Application of this Act) of Schedule 4 (Savings, transitional and other provisions) to the Defamation Act 2005:
(a) a cause of action for defamation that accrued before 1 January 2006,
(b) a cause of action for defamation that accrued after the commencement of the Defamation Act 2005, but only if:(i) the action is raised in proceedings that include other causes of action that accrued before 1 January 2006, and(ii) the action accrued no later than 12 months after the earliest pre-1 January 2006 action accrued, and(iii) each action in the proceedings arose out of the publication of the same, or substantially the same, matter on different occasions.
Clause 2 of Schedule 4 to the Defamation Act 2005 also ensures that any other law (both legislative and common law) that would have applied to such causes of action but for the enactment of the new Act will continue to apply to such causes of action.
pt 14, div 6: Ins 2005 (807), Sch 1 [3].
14.30 Allegations in statements of claim generally
(cf SCR Part 67, rule 11; DCR Part 49, rule 10)
(1) A statement of claim seeking relief in relation to the publication of defamatory matter must not include any allegation that the matter or its publication was false, malicious or unlawful.(2) Any such statement of claim must:(a) subject to subrule (3), specify each imputation on which the plaintiff relies, and(b) allege that the imputation was defamatory of the plaintiff.(3) A plaintiff in proceedings for defamation must not rely on two or more imputations alleged to be made by the defendant by means of the same publication of the same matter unless the imputations differ in substance.rules 14.30–14.37: Ins 2005 (807), Sch 1 [3].
14.31 Defamation defences generally
(cf SCR Part 67, rules 13 and 19 (1); DCR Part 49, rule 12)
(1) Subject to rules 14.32–14.40, a defendant in proceedings for defamation must plead any defamation defence specifically.(2) If the plaintiff in defamation proceedings complains of two or more imputations, the pleading of any of the following defences must specify to what imputation or imputations the defence is pleaded:(a) a defence under section 15 (2) or 16 (2) of the Defamation Act 1974,(b) a defence under section 25 or 26 of the Defamation Act 2005,(c) the defence of justification at common law.(3) If a plaintiff intends to meet any defamation defence:(a) by alleging that the defendant was actuated by express malice in the publication of the matter complained of, orthen the plaintiff must plead that allegation or matter of defeasance by way of reply.(b) by relying on any matter which, under the Defamation Act 1974 or the Defamation Act 2005, defeats the defence,rules 14.30–14.37: Ins 2005 (807), Sch 1 [3].
14.32 Defence of justification generally
(cf SCR Part 67, rule 14; DCR Part 49, rule 13)
(1) Defence under Defamation Act 1974 Subject to rule 14.31 (2), a defence under section 15 (2) of the Defamation Act 1974 is sufficiently pleaded if it alleges:(a) that the imputation in question was a matter of substantial truth, and(b) either:(i) that the imputation in question related to a matter of public interest, or(ii) that the imputation in question was published under qualified privilege.Note—The defence of justification under section 15 (2) of the Defamation Act 1974 applies to the exclusion of the common law defence of justification. See section 15 (1) of the Defamation Act 1974.(2) Defences under Defamation Act 2005 and at common law Subject to rule 14.31 (2), a defence of justification under section 25 of the Defamation Act 2005 or at common law is sufficiently pleaded if it alleges that the imputation in question was substantially true.Note—The defence of justification under section 25 of the Defamation Act 2005 is in addition to, and does not vitiate, limit or abrogate, the common law defence of justification. See section 24 (1) of the Defamation Act 2005.rules 14.30–14.37: Ins 2005 (807), Sch 1 [3].
14.33 Defence of contextual truth
(cf SCR Part 67, rule 15; DCR Part 49, rule 14)
(1) Defence under Defamation Act 1974 Subject to rule 14.31 (2), a defence under section 16 of the Defamation Act 1974 is sufficiently pleaded if it:(a) alleges either:(i) that the imputation in question related to a matter of public interest, or(ii) that the imputation in question was published under qualified privilege, and(b) specifies one or more imputations on which the defendant relies as being contextual to the imputation in question, and(c) as to the contextual imputations on which the defendant relies:(i) alleges either that they related to a matter of public interest or that they were published under qualified privilege, and(ii) alleges that they were matters of substantial truth, and(d) alleges that, by reason that the contextual imputations on which the defendant relies are matters of substantial truth, the imputation in question did not further injure the reputation of the plaintiff.(2) Defence under Defamation Act 2005 Subject to rule 14.31 (2), a defence under section 26 of the Defamation Act 2005 is sufficiently pleaded if it:(a) specifies one or more imputations on which the defendant relies as being contextual to the imputation in question, and(b) alleges each contextual imputation on which the defendant relies was substantially true, and(c) alleges that the imputation in question did not further harm the reputation of the plaintiff because of the contextual imputations on which the defendant relies.rules 14.30–14.37: Ins 2005 (807), Sch 1 [3].
14.34 Defence of absolute privilege
(1) This rule applies:(a) to a defence of absolute privilege under Division 3 of Part 3 of the Defamation Act 1974 or under section 27 of the Defamation Act 2005, and(b) to the defence of absolute privilege at common law.(2) A defence to which this rule applies is sufficiently pleaded if it alleges that the matter complained of was published under absolute privilege.rules 14.30–14.37: Ins 2005 (807), Sch 1 [3].
14.35 Defences for publication of public and official documents
(1) Defence under section 25 of Defamation Act 1974 A defence under section 25 of the Defamation Act 1974 is sufficiently pleaded if it alleges that the matter complained of was:(a) a document or record specified as a document or record to which that section applies or a copy of such a document or record, or(b) a fair summary of, or a fair extract from, such a document or record.(2) Defence under section 27 of Defamation Act 1974 A defence under section 27 of the Defamation Act 1974 is sufficiently pleaded if it alleges that the matter complained of was a notice published in accordance with the direction of a court.(3) Defence under section 28 of Defamation Act 2005 A defence under section 28 of the Defamation Act 2005 is sufficiently pleaded if it alleges that the matter complained of was contained in:(a) a public document or a fair copy of a public document, or(b) a fair summary of, or a fair extract from, a public document.rules 14.30–14.37: Ins 2005 (807), Sch 1 [3].
14.36 Defences of fair report of proceedings of public concern
(1) Defences under Defamation Act 1974 A defence under section 24 of the Defamation Act 1974 is sufficiently pleaded if it alleges that:(a) the matter complained of was a fair protected report, or(b) the matter complained of was a later publication by the defendant of:(i) a protected report or a copy of the protected report, or a fair extract or fair abstract from, or fair summary of, a protected report that was previously published by another person, orand the defendant did not have knowledge that should have made the defendant aware that the protected report is not fair or the material purporting to be a protected report was not a protected report or is not fair.(ii) material purporting to be a protected report or a copy of a protected report, or of a fair extract or fair abstract from, or fair summary of, material purporting to be a protected report that was previously published by another person,(2) Defences under Defamation Act 2005 A defence under section 29 of the Defamation Act 2005 is sufficiently pleaded if it alleges that:(a) the matter complained of was, or was contained in, a fair report of any proceedings of public concern, or(b) the matter complained of:(i) was, or was contained in, an earlier published report of proceedings of public concern, andand the defendant had no knowledge that would reasonably make the defendant aware that the earlier published report was not fair.(ii) was, or was contained in, a fair copy of, a fair summary of, or a fair extract from, the earlier published report,rules 14.30–14.37: Ins 2005 (807), Sch 1 [3].
14.37 Defence of qualified privilege
(cf SCR Part 67, rule 16; DCR Part 49, rule 15)
(1) This rule applies:(a) to a defence under Division 4 of Part 3 of the Defamation Act 1974 or section 30 of the Defamation Act 2005, and(b) to any other defence of qualified privilege other than any of the following:(i) a defence under Division 5, 6 or 7 of Part 3 of the Defamation Act 1974,(ii) a defence under section 28, 29 or 31 of the Defamation Act 2005,(iii) the defence of fair comment at common law.(2) A defence to which this rule applies is sufficiently pleaded if it alleges that the matter complained of was published under qualified privilege.rules 14.30–14.37: Ins 2005 (807), Sch 1 [3].
14.38 Defences of comment or honest opinion
(cf SCR Part 67, rule 17 (1) and (2); DCR Part 49, rule 16 (1) and (2))
(1) Defences under Defamation Act 1974 A defence under Division 7 of Part 3 of the Defamation Act 1974 is sufficiently pleaded if, as to the matter it alleges was comment, it:(a) either:(i) alleges that the comment was comment based on proper material for comment and on no other material, or(ii) alleges that the comment was comment based to some extent on proper material for comment and represented an opinion that might reasonably be based on that material to the extent to which it was proper material for comment, and(b) alleges that the comment related to a matter of public interest, and(c) either:(i) alleges that the comment was the comment of the defendant, or(ii) alleges that the comment was the comment of a servant or agent of the defendant, or(iii) alleges that the comment was not, and in its context and in the circumstances of the publication complained of did not purport to be, the comment of the defendant or of any servant or agent of the defendant.Note—A defence of fair comment under Division 7 of Part 3 of the Defamation Act 1974 applies to the exclusion of the common law defence of fair comment. See section 29 of the Defamation Act 1974.(2) Defences under Defamation Act 2005 A defence under section 31 of the Defamation Act 2005 is sufficiently pleaded if, as to the matter it alleges was opinion, it:(a) either:(i) alleges that the opinion was based on proper material and on no other material, or(ii) alleges that the opinion was an opinion based to some extent on proper material and represented an opinion that might reasonably be based on that material to the extent to which it was proper material, and(b) alleges that the opinion was an opinion related to a matter of public interest, and(c) either:(i) alleges that the opinion was an expression of opinion of the defendant, or(ii) alleges that the opinion was an expression of opinion of an employee or agent of the defendant, or(iii) alleges that the opinion was an expression of opinion of a person other than the defendant or an employee or agent of the defendant.Note—A defence of honest opinion under section 31 of the Defamation Act 2005 is in addition to, and does not vitiate, limit or abrogate, the common law defence of fair comment. See section 24 (1) of the Defamation Act 2005.(3) Defence of fair comment at common law A defence of fair comment at common law is sufficiently pleaded if, as to the matter it alleges was comment, it:(a) alleges that the comment was comment based on true facts or material that was published under privilege, and(b) alleges that the comment related to a matter of public interest.(c) (Repealed)Note—See the note to subrule (2).rule 14.38: Ins 2005 (807), Sch 1 [3]. Am 2006 (288), Sch 1 [4] [5].
14.39 Defence of innocent dissemination
A defence under section 32 of the Defamation Act 2005 is sufficiently pleaded if it alleges that:(a) the defendant published the matter complained of merely in the capacity, or as an employee or agent, of a subordinate distributor, and(b) the defendant neither knew, nor ought reasonably to have known, that the matter was defamatory, and(c) the defendant’s lack of knowledge was not due to any negligence on the part of the defendant.rules 14.39, 14.40: Ins 2005 (807), Sch 1 [3].
14.40 Defence of triviality
(1) This rule applies to:(a) a defence under section 13 of the Defamation Act 1974, and(b) a defence under section 33 of the Defamation Act 2005.(2) A defence to which this rule applies is sufficiently pleaded if it alleges that the circumstances of publication of the matter complained of were such that the plaintiff was unlikely to sustain any harm.rules 14.39, 14.40: Ins 2005 (807), Sch 1 [3].
Part 15 Particulars
Division 1 General
15.1 Pleadings must give all necessary particulars
(cf SCR Part 16, rules 1 and 1A; DCR Part 9, rule 19; LCR Part 8, rule 2)
(1) Subject to this Part, a pleading must give such particulars of any claim, defence or other matter pleaded by the party as are necessary to enable the opposite party to identify the case that the pleading requires him or her to meet.(2) Subrule (1) does not require a pleading to give particulars of any claim for interest up to judgment other than those required by rule 6.12 (7).
15.2 Use of “Scott Schedule” in building, technical and other cases
(cf DCR Part 9, rule 19A; LCR Part 8, rule 7)
(1) In proceedings involving a building, technical or other matter in which several items of a claim are in dispute as to liability or amount, or both, the party making the claim may, and if the court so orders must, prepare and file a “Scott Schedule” in the approved form.(2) A party on whom a Scott Schedule is served must complete and file the Schedule.
15.3 Allegations of behaviour in the nature of fraud
(cf SCR Part 16, rule 2; DCR Part 9, rule 20)
A pleading must give particulars of any fraud, misrepresentation, breach of trust, wilful default or undue influence on which the party relies.
15.4 Allegations as to condition of mind
(cf SCR Part 16, rule 3; DCR Part 9, rule 21)
(1) A pleading that alleges any condition of mind must give particulars of the facts on which the party pleading relies.(2) In subrule (1), condition of mind includes any disorder or disability of mind, any malice and any fraudulent intention, but does not include knowledge.
15.5 Allegations of negligence and breach of statutory duty in common law claims in tort
(cf SCR Part 16, rule 4; DCR Part 9, rule 22; LCR Part 8, rule 4)
(1) The particulars to be given by a pleading that alleges negligence (whether contributory or otherwise):(a) must state the facts and circumstances on which the party pleading relies as constituting the alleged negligent act or omission, and(b) if the party pleading alleges more than one negligent act or omission, must, so far as practicable, state separately the facts and circumstances on which the party relies in respect of each alleged negligent act or omission.(2) The particulars to be given by a pleading that alleges breach of statutory duty:(a) must state the facts and circumstances on which the party pleading relies as constituting the alleged breach of statutory duty, and(b) if the party pleading alleges more than one breach of statutory duty, must, so far as practicable, state separately the facts and circumstances on which the party relies in respect of each alleged breach of statutory duty.
15.6 Claims for out of pocket expenses
(cf SCR Part 16, rule 5; DCR Part 9, rule 23; LCR Part 8, rule 5)
A party pleading who claims damages that include money that he or she has paid or is liable to pay must give particulars of that money.
15.7 Claims for exemplary damages
(cf SCR Part 16, rule 5A)
The particulars to be given by a pleading that claims exemplary damages must state the facts and circumstances on which the party pleading relies to establish that claim.
15.8 Claims for aggravated damages
(cf SCR Part 16, rule 5B)
The particulars to be given by a pleading that claims aggravated compensatory damages must state the facts and circumstances on which the party pleading relies to establish that claim.
15.9 Manner of giving particulars
(cf SCR Part 16, rule 6; DCR Part 9, rule 25; LCR Part 8, rule 6)
The particulars to be given by a pleading must be set out in the pleading or, if that is inconvenient, must be set out in a separate document referred to in the pleading and filed with the pleading.
15.10 Order for particulars
(cf SCR Part 16, rule 7; DCR Part 9, rule 26; LCR Part 8, rule 8)
(1) The court may order a party to file:(a) particulars of any claim, defence or other matter stated in the party’s pleading or in any affidavit relevant to the proceedings, or(b) a statement of the nature of the case on which the party relies, or(c) if the party claims damages, particulars relating to general or other damages.(2) Without limiting subrule (1), if a pleading alleges that a person had knowledge or notice of some fact, matter or thing, the court may order that party to file:(a) if the pleading alleges knowledge, particulars of the facts on which that party relies, and(b) if the pleading alleges notice, particulars of the notice.
15.11 Particulars concerning claims under Property (Relationships) Act 1984
The particulars to be given by a pleading with respect to a claim for relief under section 20 (1) of the Property (Relationships) Act 1984 must include:(a) particulars of any payment on which the plaintiff relies as to any contribution referred to in that subsection, and(b) particulars of any document on which the plaintiff relies as evidence that any such payment has been made.
Division 2 Personal injury cases
15.12 Particulars required for proceedings generally
(cf DCR Part 9, rule 27 (2)–(5))
(1) This rule applies to a claim for damages in respect of personal injuries arising from any event (the accident), other than a claim that is the subject of proceedings under the Compensation to Relatives Act 1897.(2) On or as soon as practicable after serving the statement of claim, the plaintiff must serve on the defendant, or on the defendant’s insurer or solicitor, a statement accompanied by the following documents:(a) copies of all documents available to the plaintiff in support of a claim for special damage and economic loss, whether past, present or continuing, including:(i) hospital, medical and similar accounts, and(ii) letters from a workers’ compensation insurer indicating moneys paid to or for the plaintiff, and(iii) letters from employers, wage records, income records and group certificates, and(iv) reports, award rates and correspondence relied on to support any claim in respect of domestic assistance or attendant care,(b) copies of all hospital and medical reports available at the time of serving the statement on which the plaintiff intends to rely at the hearing.(3) The statement must set out the following particulars:(a) particulars of injuries received,(b) particulars of continuing disabilities,(c) particulars of out-of-pocket expenses.(4) If the statement makes any claim in respect of domestic assistance or attendant care, it must also set out full particulars of the claim.(5) If the statement makes any claim in respect of loss of income, it must also set out the following particulars:(a) the name and address of each employer during the 12 months immediately before the accident, together with details of the periods of employment, capacity in which employed and net earnings during each period of employment,(b) the name and address of each employer since the accident, together with details of the periods of employment, capacity in which employed and net earnings during each period of employment,(c) the amount claimed in respect of loss of income to the date of the statement (by comparison between what the plaintiff has earned since the accident and what the plaintiff would have earned but for the accident) setting out, in respect of what the plaintiff would have earned but for the accident, including, where appropriate:(i) particulars of the earnings of comparable employees and the identity of those employees, or(ii) particulars of any payment that the plaintiff would have received under a relevant award or industrial agreement, together with the title of that award or industrial agreement,(d) particulars of any alleged loss of earning capacity and future economic loss,(e) if the plaintiff is self-employed or has been self-employed at any time during the 12 months immediately before the accident, such additional particulars as will achieve full disclosure of the basis of the claim for loss of income.(6) If the statement makes any claim in respect of loss of income, copies of the following documents must be served on all active parties:(a) a letter from the employer or employers (if any) of the plaintiff immediately before the accident the subject of the proceedings, providing particulars of:(i) the dates on which the plaintiff was absent from work due to the accident, and(ii) the total net remuneration lost by the plaintiff in respect of that absence, including overtime, and(iii) if the plaintiff returned to work for that employer, the plaintiff’s classification and duties, and any alteration in the remuneration paid to the plaintiff, after that return, and(iv) if that employment has been terminated, the date of and reason for the termination,(b) if the plaintiff was self-employed immediately before the accident, copies of any accountants’ reports or other documents on which the plaintiff intends to rely to establish his or her pre-accident income,(c) copies of the plaintiff’s income tax returns relating to income received during the period of 2 financial years ending immediately before the financial year that included the date of the accident, together with copies of any income tax returns lodged by the plaintiff since the date of the accident.(7) If any, or any part of, any document required to be served by subrule (6) cannot be served, a statement of the reasons why it cannot be served must be included in the documents served.rule 15.12: Am 2006 (716), Sch 1 [13].
15.13 Particulars required for proceedings under Compensation to Relatives Act 1897
(cf DCR Part 9, rule 27 (6) and (7))
(1) This rule applies to a claim for damages in respect of personal injuries arising from any act, neglect or default (the accident) that is the subject of proceedings under the Compensation to Relatives Act 1897.(2) On or as soon as practicable after serving the statement of claim, the plaintiff must serve on the defendant, or on the defendant’s insurer or solicitor:(a) in respect of each person on whose behalf the proceedings are commenced, a statement containing the following information:(i) the person’s name, address, relationship to the deceased person the subject of the proceedings, marital status and any anticipated alteration to that status,(ii) whether the person’s dependency on the deceased person, or the person’s reliance on services provided by the deceased person, is claimed to have been whole or partial, the circumstances in which the person received support or services from the deceased person, and the quantum of that support or those services during the 12-month period immediately before the death of the deceased person, and(b) in respect of each person on whose behalf the proceedings are commenced, copies of the following documents:(i) a copy or extract of the person’s birth certificate and, if the person has been married, a copy of the person’s marriage certificate,(ii) copies of any bank statements, financial records or other documents on which the person intends to rely to establish the extent of the support and other benefits provided to the person by the deceased person, covering a period of not less than 12 months immediately before the date of the death of the deceased person, and(c) in respect of the deceased person, copies of the following documents:(i) a letter from the employer (if any) of the deceased person immediately before the accident, providing particulars of the deceased person’s remuneration and prospects of promotion at the date of his or her death,(ii) copies of the deceased person’s income tax returns relating to income received during the period of 2 financial years ending immediately before the financial year that included the date of his or her death,(iii) copies of all documents, including accounts and receipts, in support of any claim for the cost of a funeral or headstone or for any other expenses relating to the deceased person’s death,(iv) copies of documents evidencing the net value of the estate of the deceased person.(3) (Repealed)(4) If any, or any part of, any document required to be served by subrule (2) cannot be served, a statement of the reasons why it cannot be served must be included in the documents served.rule 15.13: Am 2006 (716), Sch 1 [14].
15.14 Statements, documents and reports to be complete
(cf DCR Part 9, rule 27 (8)–(10))
(1) The statement and documents required by rule 15.12 or 15.13 to be served:(a) must be as final and complete as to the plaintiff’s case as they can, with the exercise of reasonable diligence, be made, and(b) must contain such information as the plaintiff can then provide as to any medical examination of the plaintiff to be conducted after the date of service.(2) As soon as practicable after becoming aware that any information contained in a statement or document that has been served as required by rule 15.12 or 15.13 is no longer accurate and complete as regards the plaintiff’s claim, the plaintiff must give to all active parties such advice as is necessary to make that information accurate and complete.(3) If the plaintiff gives advice as referred to in subrule (2), the court may direct the plaintiff to file an amended statement of particulars.(4) Unless the court orders otherwise, the plaintiff must file a copy of the final statement of particulars at least 42 days prior to the date fixed for hearing or arbitration of the proceedings.(5) Subject to subrules (3) and (4), an amended statement of particulars may not be filed except by leave of the court.
15.15 (Repealed)
rule 15.15: Rep 2006 (716), Sch 1 [15].
15.16 Effect of failure to comply with Division
(cf DCR Part 9, rule 27 (11))
If, after conducting a review or status conference or otherwise, the court is of the opinion that the plaintiff has not sufficiently complied with the requirements of this Division, the court may dismiss the proceedings or make such other order as it thinks fit.
15.17 Division not to apply in certain circumstances
(cf DCR Part 9, rule 27 (1))
This Division does not apply to a claim that is accompanied by:(a) a notice of motion seeking a separate trial on the question of liability, or(b) a notice of motion seeking an order to defer the application of this Division to the proceedings.
Division 3 Interim payments
15.18 Interim payments
(cf SCR Part 16, rule 8)
If an application for an order under section 82 of the Civil Procedure Act 2005 is made in any proceedings, the plaintiff must serve on the defendant against whom the order is sought, no later than the date of filing of notice of the motion:(a) if the application relates to a claim for damages in respect of personal injuries, the statement and documents referred to in rule 15.12, or(b) if the application relates to a claim for damages under the Compensation to Relatives Act 1897 that includes a claim for loss of maintenance and support, the statement and documents referred to in rule 15.13.
Division 4 Defamation
Note—
The Defamation Act 2005 applies to the publication of defamatory matter after the commencement of that Act. The Act commenced on 1 January 2006. However, the Defamation Act 1974 (as in force before its repeal by the Defamation Act 2005) continues to apply to the following causes of action by virtue of clause 2 (Application of this Act) of Schedule 4 (Savings, transitional and other provisions) to the Defamation Act 2005:
(a) a cause of action for defamation that accrued before 1 January 2006,
(b) a cause of action for defamation that accrued after the commencement of the Defamation Act 2005, but only if:(i) the action is raised in proceedings that include other causes of action that accrued before 1 January 2006, and(ii) the action accrued no later than 12 months after the earliest pre-1 January 2006 action accrued, and(iii) each action in the proceedings arose out of the publication of the same, or substantially the same, matter on different occasions.
Clause 2 of Schedule 4 to the Defamation Act 2005 also ensures that any other law (both legislative and common law) that would have applied to such causes of action but for the enactment of the new Act will continue to apply to such causes of action.
pt 15, div 4 (rules 15.19–15.32): Ins 2005 (807), Sch 1 [4].
15.19 Particulars in relation to statements of claim for defamation
(cf SCR Part 67, rule 12; DCR Part 49, rule 11)
(1) The particulars required by rule 15.1 in relation to a statement of claim seeking relief in relation to the publication of defamatory matter must include the following:(a) particulars of any publication on which the plaintiff relies to establish the cause of action, sufficient to enable the publication to be identified,(b) particulars of any publication, circulation or distribution of the matter complained of or copy of the matter complained of on which the plaintiff relies on the question of damages, sufficient to enable the publication, circulation or distribution to be identified,(c) if the plaintiff alleges that the matter complained of had a defamatory meaning other than its ordinary meaning—particulars of the facts and matters on which the plaintiff relies to establish that defamatory meaning, including:(i) full and complete particulars of the facts and matters relied on to establish a true innuendo, and(ii) by reference to name or class, the identity of those to whom those facts and matters were known,(d) if the plaintiff is not named in the matter complained of—particulars of identification of the plaintiff together with the identity, by reference to names and addresses or class of persons, of those to whom any such particulars were known, and(e) particulars of the part or parts of the matter complained of relied on by the plaintiff in support of each pleaded imputation.(2) Such of the following as is applicable must be filed and served with a statement of claim seeking relief in relation to the publication of defamatory matter (or any amended statement of claim) and be referred to in the statement of claim or amended statement of claim:(a) a legible photocopy of the original publication or, in the case of an internet, e-mail or other computer displayed publication, a printed copy,(b) a typescript, with numbered lines, of:(i) if the original publication is in English—the text of the original publication, or(ii) otherwise—a translation of the text of the original publication.(3) Subrule (2) (b) must be complied with in respect of radio and television publications.pt 15, div 4 (rules 15.19–15.32): Ins 2005 (807), Sch 1 [4].
15.20 Particulars in relation to statements of claim by corporations
The particulars required by rule 15.1 in relation to a statement of claim seeking relief in relation to the publication of defamatory matter about a corporation must include particulars of the facts, matters and circumstances on which the plaintiff relies to establish that the corporation is not precluded from asserting a cause of action for defamation.Note—Subject to limited exceptions, corporations are precluded from bringing defamation proceedings:(a) in relation to causes of action to which the Defamation Act 1974 applies, by section 8A of that Act, and(b) in relation to causes of action to which the Defamation Act 2005 applies, by section 9 of that Act.pt 15, div 4 (rules 15.19–15.32): Ins 2005 (807), Sch 1 [4].
15.21 Particulars of defamation defences generally
(cf SCR Part 67, rule 18; DCR Part 49, rule 17)
(1) The particulars of a defamation defence required by rule 15.1 must, unless the court orders otherwise, include particulars of the facts, matters and circumstances on which the defendant relies to establish:(a) that any imputation, notice, report, comment or other material was or related to a matter of public interest,(b) that any imputation was published under qualified privilege,(c) that any imputation or contextual imputation was true or was a matter of substantial truth,(d) that any material being proper material for comment was a matter of substantial truth.(2) If a defendant in proceedings for defamation intends to make a case in mitigation of damages by reference to:(a) the circumstances in which the publication complained of was made, or(b) the reputation of the plaintiff, or(c) any apology for, or explanation or correction or retraction of, any imputation complained of, orthe defendant must give particulars of the facts, matters and circumstances on which the defendant relies to make that case.(d) any recovery, proceedings, receipt or agreement to which section 48 of the Defamation Act 1974 or section 38 (1) (c), (d) or (e) of the Defamation Act 2005 applies,(3) If a defendant in proceedings for defamation intends to show, in mitigation of damages, that any imputation complained of was true or was a matter of substantial truth, the defendant must give particulars identifying the imputation, stating that intention, and of the facts, matters and circumstances the defendant relies on to establish that the imputation was true or was a matter of substantial truth.(4) The particulars required by subrules (2) and (3) must be set out in the defence, or, if that is inconvenient, may be set out in a separate document, referred to in the defence and that document must be filed and served with the defence.pt 15, div 4 (rules 15.19–15.32): Ins 2005 (807), Sch 1 [4].
15.22 Particulars in relation to defence of justification
(1) Defence under section 15 of Defamation Act 1974 Without limiting rule 15.21, the particulars required by rule 15.1 for a defence under section 15 (2) of the Defamation Act 1974 must (unless the court orders otherwise) include particulars of the facts, matters and circumstances on which the defendant relies to establish:(a) that the imputation in question was a matter of substantial truth, and(b) either:(i) that the imputation in question related to a matter of public interest, or(ii) that the imputation in question was published under qualified privilege.Note—The defence of justification under section 15 (2) of the Defamation Act 1974 applies to the exclusion of the common law defence of justification. See section 15 (1) of the Defamation Act 1974.(2) Defences under section 25 of Defamation Act 2005 and at common law Without limiting rule 15.21, the particulars required by rule 15.1 for a defence of justification under section 25 of the Defamation Act 2005 or at common law must (unless the court orders otherwise) include particulars of the facts, matters and circumstances on which the defendant relies to establish that the imputation in question was substantially true.Note—The defence of justification under section 25 of the Defamation Act 2005 is in addition to, and does not vitiate, limit or abrogate, the common law defence of justification. See section 24 (1) of the Defamation Act 2005.pt 15, div 4 (rules 15.19–15.32): Ins 2005 (807), Sch 1 [4].
15.23 Particulars in relation to the defence of contextual truth
(1) Defence under section 16 of Defamation Act 1974 Without limiting rule 15.21, the particulars required by rule 15.1 for a defence under section 16 of the Defamation Act 1974 must include particulars of the facts, matters and circumstances on which the defendant relies to establish:(a) that the imputation in question related to a matter of public interest or was published under qualified privilege, and(b) that the contextual imputations on which the defendant relies:(i) related to a matter of public interest or that they were published under qualified privilege, and(ii) are matters of substantial truth.(2) Defence under section 26 of Defamation Act 2005 Without limiting rule 15.21, the particulars required by rule 15.1 for a defence of contextual truth under section 26 of the Defamation Act 2005 must include particulars of the facts, matters and circumstances on which the defendant relies to establish that the contextual imputations on which the defendant relies are substantially true.pt 15, div 4 (rules 15.19–15.32): Ins 2005 (807), Sch 1 [4].
15.24 Particulars in relation to defence of absolute privilege
(1) This rule applies:(a) to a defence of absolute privilege under Division 3 of Part 3 of the Defamation Act 1974 or under section 27 of the Defamation Act 2005, and(b) to the defence of absolute privilege at common law.(2) Without limiting rule 15.21, the particulars required by rule 15.1 for a defence of absolute privilege to which this rule applies must include particulars of the facts, matters and circumstances on which the defendant relies to establish that the imputation or matter complained of was published under absolute privilege.pt 15, div 4 (rules 15.19–15.32): Ins 2005 (807), Sch 1 [4].
15.25 Particulars in relation to defences for publication of public and official documents
(1) Defence under section 25 of Defamation Act 1974 Without limiting rule 15.21, the particulars required by rule 15.1 for a defence under section 25 of the Defamation Act 1974 must include particulars of the facts, matters and circumstances on which the defendant relies to establish that the matter complained of was:(a) a document or record specified as a document or record to which that section applies or a copy of such a document or record, or(b) a fair extract or fair abstract from, or a fair summary of, such a document or record.(2) Defence under section 27 of Defamation Act 1974 Without limiting rule 15.21, the particulars required by rule 15.1 for a defence under section 27 of the Defamation Act 1974 must include particulars of the facts, matters and circumstances on which the defendant relies to establish that the matter complained of was a notice published in accordance with the direction of a court.(3) Defence under section 28 of Defamation Act 2005 Without limiting rule 15.21, the particulars required by rule 15.1 for a defence under section 28 of the Defamation Act 2005 must include particulars of the facts, matters and circumstances on which the defendant relies to establish that the matter complained of was contained in:(a) a public document or a fair copy of a public document, or(b) a fair summary of, or a fair extract from, a public document.pt 15, div 4 (rules 15.19–15.32): Ins 2005 (807), Sch 1 [4].
15.26 Particulars in relation to defences of fair report of proceedings of public concern
(1) Defences under section 24 of Defamation Act 1974 Without limiting rule 15.21, the particulars required by rule 15.1 for a defence under section 24 of the Defamation Act 1974 must include particulars of the facts, matters and circumstances on which the defendant relies to establish that:(a) the matter complained of was a fair protected report, or(b) the matter complained of was a later publication by the defendant of:(i) a protected report or a copy of the protected report, or a fair extract or fair abstract from, or fair summary of, a protected report that was previously published by another person, orand the defendant did not have knowledge that should have made the defendant aware that the protected report is not fair or the material purporting to be a protected report was not a protected report or is not fair.(ii) material purporting to be a protected report or a copy of the protected report, or of a fair extract or fair abstract from, or fair summary of, material purporting to be a protected report that was previously published by another person,(2) Defences under section 29 of Defamation Act 2005 Without limiting rule 15.21, the particulars required by rule 15.1 for a defence under section 29 of the Defamation Act 2005 must include particulars of the facts, matters and circumstances on which the defendant relies to establish that:(a) the matter complained of was, or was contained in, a fair report of any proceedings of public concern, or(b) the matter complained of:(i) was, or was contained in, an earlier published report of proceedings of public concern, andand the defendant had no knowledge that would reasonably make the defendant aware that the earlier published report was not fair.(ii) was, or was contained in, a fair copy of, a fair summary of, or a fair extract from, the earlier published report,pt 15, div 4 (rules 15.19–15.32): Ins 2005 (807), Sch 1 [4].
15.27 Particulars in relation to defence of qualified privilege
(1) This rule applies:(a) to a defence under Division 4 of Part 3 of the Defamation Act 1974 or section 30 of the Defamation Act 2005, and(b) to any other defence of qualified privilege other than any of the following:(i) a defence under Division 5, 6 or 7 of Part 3 of the Defamation Act 1974,(ii) a defence under section 28, 29 or 31 of the Defamation Act 2005,(iii) the defence of fair comment at common law.(2) Without limiting rule 15.21, the particulars required by rule 15.1 for a defence of qualified privilege to which this rule applies must include particulars of the facts, matters and circumstances on which the defendant relies to establish that the imputation or matter complained of was published under qualified privilege.pt 15, div 4 (rules 15.19–15.32): Ins 2005 (807), Sch 1 [4].
15.28 Particulars in relation to defences of comment and honest opinion
(cf SCR Part 67, rule 17 (3)–(6); DCR Part 49, rule 16 (3)–(6))
(1) Defences under Division 7 of Part 3 of Defamation Act 1974 Without limiting rule 15.21, the particulars required by rule 15.1 for a defence of comment under Division 7 of Part 3 of the Defamation Act 1974 must include:(a) particulars identifying the material on which it is alleged that the matter alleged to be comment was comment and identifying to what extent that material is alleged to be proper material for comment, and(b) as to material alleged to be proper material for comment, particulars of the facts, matters and circumstances on which the defendant relies to establish that allegation.(c) if the defendant relies on a defence under section 33 of that Act—particulars identifying the servant or agent of the defendant whose comment it is alleged to be.Note—A defence of fair comment under Division 7 of Part 3 of the Defamation Act 1974 applies to the exclusion of the common law defence of fair comment. See section 29 of the Defamation Act 1974.(2) Defences under section 31 of Defamation Act 2005 Without limiting rule 15.21, the particulars required by rule 15.1 for a defence of honest opinion under section 31 of the Defamation Act 2005 must include:(a) particulars identifying the material on which it is alleged that the matter alleged to be an opinion was an opinion and identifying to what extent that material is alleged to be proper material, and(b) as to material alleged to be proper material, particulars of the facts, matters and circumstances on which the defendant relies to establish that allegation, and(c) if the defendant relies on a defence under section 31 (2) of that Act—particulars identifying the employee or agent of the defendant whose opinion it is alleged to be, and(d) if the defendant relies on a defence under section 31 (3) of that Act—particulars identifying the commentator whose opinion it is alleged to be.Note—A defence of honest opinion under section 31 of the Defamation Act 2005 is in addition to, and does not vitiate, limit or abrogate, the common law defence of fair comment. See section 24 (1) of the Defamation Act 2005.(3) Defence of fair comment at common law Without limiting rule 15.21, the particulars required by rule 15.1 for a defence of fair comment at common law must include:(a) particulars identifying the material on which it is alleged that the matter alleged to be comment was comment and identifying to what extent that material is alleged to be based on true facts or material that was published under privilege, and(b) as to material alleged to be true facts or material that was published under privilege, particulars of the facts, matters and circumstances on which the defendant relies to establish that allegation.Note—See note to subrule (2).pt 15, div 4 (rules 15.19–15.32): Ins 2005 (807), Sch 1 [4].
15.29 Particulars in relation to defence of innocent dissemination
Without limiting rule 15.21, the particulars required by rule 15.1 for a defence under section 32 of the Defamation Act 2005 must include particulars of the facts, matters and circumstances on which the defendant relies to establish that:(a) the defendant published the matter complained of merely in the capacity, or as an employee or agent, of a subordinate distributor, and(b) the defendant neither knew, nor ought reasonably to have known, that the matter was defamatory, and(c) the defendant’s lack of knowledge was not due to any negligence on the part of the defendant.pt 15, div 4 (rules 15.19–15.32): Ins 2005 (807), Sch 1 [4].
15.30 Particulars in relation to defence of triviality
(1) This rule applies to:(a) a defence under section 13 of the Defamation Act 1974, and(b) a defence under section 33 of the Defamation Act 2005.(2) Without limiting rule 15.21, the particulars required by rule 15.1 for a defence to which this rule applies must include particulars of the facts, matters and circumstances on which the defendant relies to establish that the circumstances of publication of the matter complained of were such that the plaintiff was unlikely to sustain any harm.pt 15, div 4 (rules 15.19–15.32): Ins 2005 (807), Sch 1 [4].
15.31 Particulars concerning grounds that defeat defamation defences
(cf SCR Part 67, rule 19 (1); DCR Part 49, rule 18)
(1) If a plaintiff intends to meet any defamation defence:(a) by alleging that the defendant was actuated by express malice in the publication of the matter complained of, orthen the particulars required by rule 15.1 in relation to the reply must include particulars of the facts, matters and circumstances on which the plaintiff relies to establish that allegation or matter of defeasance.(b) by relying on any matter which, under the Defamation Act 1974 or the Defamation Act 2005, defeats the defence,(2) The particulars required by subrule (1) must be set out in the reply, or, if that is inconvenient, may be set out in a separate document, referred to in the reply, and that document must be filed and served with the reply.pt 15, div 4 (rules 15.19–15.32): Ins 2005 (807), Sch 1 [4].
15.32 Particulars concerning damages
(cf SCR Part 67, rule 19 (2) and (3); DCR Part 49, rule 18)
The plaintiff must give:(a) particulars of facts, matters and circumstances on which the plaintiff will rely in support of a claim for aggravated damages, and(b) particulars of any claim the plaintiff makes by way of:(i) special damages, or(ii) any claim for general loss of business or custom.pt 15, div 4 (rules 15.19–15.32): Ins 2005 (807), Sch 1 [4].
Part 16 Default judgment
16.1 Application of Part
(cf SCR Part 17, rule 1; DCR Part 13, rule 1; LCR Part 11, rule 1)
This Part applies to proceedings commenced by statement of claim.
16.2 Definition of “in default”
(cf SCR Part 17, rule 2; DCR Part 13, rule 1; LCR Part 11, rule 1)
(1) A defendant is in default for the purposes of this Part:(a) if the defendant fails to file a defence within the time limited by rule 14.3 (1) or within such further time as the court allows, or(b) if the defendant fails to file any affidavit verifying his or her defence in accordance with any requirement of these rules, or(c) if, the defendant having duly filed a defence, the court orders the defence to be struck out.(2) Despite subrule (1), a defendant is not in default if the defendant:(a) has made a payment towards a liquidated claim under rule 6.17, or(b) has filed an acknowledgment of claim under rule 20.34, or(c) has filed a defence after the time limited by these rules or allowed by the court, but before a default judgment is given against the defendant.rule 16.2: Am 2007 (327), Sch 1 [2].
16.3 Procedure where defendant in default
(cf SCR Part 17, rule 3; DCR Part 13, rule 1)
(1) If a defendant is in default, the plaintiff:(a) may apply for judgment to be given under this Part, according to the nature of his or her claim for relief, against the defendant in default, and(b) may carry on the proceedings against any other party to the proceedings.(1A) Unless the court otherwise orders, an application under this rule:(a) may be dealt with in the absence of the parties, and(b) need not be served on the defendant.(2) Unless the court orders otherwise, an application for judgment to be given under this Part must be accompanied by:(a) an affidavit of service of the statement of claim (the affidavit of service), and(b) an affidavit in support of the application (the affidavit in support).(3) An affidavit of service is unnecessary in relation to a statement of claim whose service has been effected by the Local Court under rule 10.1 (2).(4) Unless the court orders otherwise, an affidavit in support is valid for the purposes of an application only if it has been sworn within 14 days before the date on which the application is filed.rule 16.3: Am 2005 (395), Sch 1 [29]; 2007 (327), Sch 1 [2].
16.4 Default judgment on claim for possession of land
(cf SCR Part 17, rule 7)
(1) Subject to rule 36.8, if the plaintiff’s claim against a defendant in default is for possession of land only, judgment may be given for the plaintiff for possession of land, as against the defendant, and for costs.(2) If, before judgment is given, any person files notice of motion for the person’s addition as a defendant, judgment may not be given under this rule until the motion is disposed of.(3) The relevant affidavit in support:(a) must identify any persons (other than parties to the proceedings) who were in occupation of the whole or any part of the land:(i) as at the time the originating process was filed, or(ii) if the claim for possession arises from an amendment to the originating process, as at the time the amendment was made, and(b) in relation to each such person:(i) must state that the person’s occupation of the land is not to be disturbed, or(ii) must state that the person is no longer in occupation of any part of the land, oras the case requires, and(iii) must state that the person has been served with a notice pursuant to rule 6.8 and that the time allowed for the person to apply to the court to be joined as a defendant has now passed,(c) if the claim for possession of the land arises from a default in the payment of money, must give particulars of the default, and(d) must state the source of the deponent’s knowledge of the matters stated in the affidavit concerning the occupation of the land and any default in the payment of money referred to in paragraph (c), and(e) must state whether costs are claimed and, if so, how much is claimed for costs, indicating:(i) how much is claimed on account of professional costs (not exceeding the amount fixed by the regulations made for the purposes of section 329 of the Legal Profession Act 2004), and(ii) how much is claimed on account of filing fees, and(iii) how much is claimed on account of the costs of serving the originating process, and(f) must state when and how the originating process was served on the defendant.rule 16.4: Am 2006 (716), Sch 1 [16] [17]; 2007 No 27, Sch 2.58; 2007 (327), Sch 1 [2] [3]; 2007 (579), Sch 1 [9] [10].
16.5 Default judgment on claim for detention of goods
(cf SCR Part 17, rule 6)
(1) If the plaintiff’s claim against a defendant in default relates to the detention of goods only, judgment may be given for the plaintiff against the defendant, in accordance with the plaintiff’s claim:(a) for delivery of the goods to the plaintiff and for costs, orat the plaintiff’s option.(b) for payment to the plaintiff of the value of the goods (as assessed by or in accordance with the directions of the court) and for costs,Note—See Part 30 for provisions as to assessment of value of goods.(2) The relevant affidavit in support:(a) must state which goods have, and which have not, been delivered to the plaintiff since the time the originating process was filed, and(b) must give particulars of any payments that the defendant has made to the plaintiff in respect of the goods or state that no such payments have been made, as the case may be, since the time the originating process was filed, and(c) must state the source of the deponent’s knowledge of the matters stated in the affidavit concerning the delivery or non-delivery of the goods, and(d) must state whether costs are claimed and, if so, how much is claimed for costs, indicating:(i) how much is claimed on account of professional costs (not exceeding the amount fixed by the regulations made for the purposes of section 329 of the Legal Profession Act 2004), and(ii) how much is claimed on account of filing fees, and(iii) how much is claimed on account of the costs of serving the originating process, and(e) must state when and how the originating process was served on the defendant.rule 16.5: Am 2006 (716), Sch 1 [16] [17]; 2007 No 27, Sch 2.58; 2007 (327), Sch 1 [2]; 2007 (579), Sch 1 [11] [12].
16.6 Default judgment on debt or liquidated claim
(cf SCR Part 17, rule 4; DCR Part 13, rule 1; LCR Part 11, rule 1)
(1) If the plaintiff’s claim against a defendant in default is for a debt or liquidated claim or for a claim for unliquidated damages of the kind referred to in rule 14.13 (2), judgment may be given for the plaintiff against the defendant for:(a) a sum not exceeding the sum claimed, and(b) interest up to judgment, and(c) costs.(2) The relevant affidavit in support:(a) must state the amount due to the plaintiff, in respect of the cause of action for which the proceedings were commenced, as at the time the originating process was filed, and(b) must give particulars of any reduction of that amount, and costs, as a consequence of any payments made, or credits accrued, since the time the originating process was filed, and(c) must state the source of the deponent’s knowledge of the matters stated in the affidavit concerning the debt or debts, and(d) must state the amount claimed by way of interest, and(e) must state whether costs are claimed and, if so, how much is claimed for costs, indicating:(i) how much is claimed on account of professional costs (not exceeding the amount fixed by the regulations made for the purposes of section 329 of the Legal Profession Act 2004), and(ii) how much is claimed on account of filing fees, and(iii) how much is claimed on account of the costs of serving the originating process, and(f) must state when and how the originating process was served on the defendant.rule 16.6: Am 2006 (716), Sch 1 [16] [17]; 2007 No 27, Sch 2.58; 2007 (327), Sch 1 [2]; 2007 (579), Sch 1 [13] [14].
16.7 Default judgment on claim for unliquidated damages
(cf SCR Part 17, rule 5)
(1) If the plaintiff’s claim against a defendant in default is for unliquidated damages only, judgment may be given for the plaintiff against the defendant for damages to be assessed and for costs.Note—See Part 30 for provisions as to assessment of damages.(2) The relevant affidavit in support:(a) must state that the matter has not been settled with the defendant, and(b) must state the source of the deponent’s knowledge of the matters stated in the affidavit concerning the claim, and(c) must state whether costs are claimed and, if so, how much is claimed for costs, indicating:(i) how much is claimed on account of professional costs (not exceeding the amount fixed by the regulations made for the purposes of section 329 of the Legal Profession Act 2004), and(ii) how much is claimed on account of filing fees, and(iii) how much is claimed on account of the costs of serving the originating process, and(d) must state when and how the originating process was served on the defendant.rule 16.7: Am 2006 (716), Sch 1 [16] [17]; 2007 No 27, Sch 2.58; 2007 (327), Sch 1 [2]; 2007 (579), Sch 1 [15] [16].
16.8 Default judgment on mixed claims
(cf SCR Part 17, rule 8)
(1) If the plaintiff’s claim against a defendant in default includes any 2 or more of the claims referred to in this Part, and no other claim, judgment may be given for the plaintiff against the defendant on any of those claims as if it were the plaintiff’s only claim for relief against that defendant.(2) In the case of two or more such claims, the relevant affidavit in support must comply with the requirements of this Part in relation to each of those claims.rules 16.8, 16.9: Am 2007 (327), Sch 1 [2].
16.9 Judgment for costs alone after other claims satisfied
(cf SCR Part 17, rule 10 (1); DCR Part 31, rule 13; LCR Part 26, rule 4)
(1) If a plaintiff is entitled to have judgment given under this Part against a defendant in default for any relief and for costs, but it appears by affidavit that, by reason of the defendant having satisfied the plaintiff’s claims, it is unnecessary for the plaintiff to continue the proceedings against the defendant, judgment for the plaintiff may be given under this Part against that defendant for costs alone.(2) Whatever the plaintiff’s claims for relief against a defendant in default, if:(a) the defendant satisfies the plaintiff’s claims or complies with the plaintiff’s demands, orthe court may, on application by the plaintiff, give judgment against the defendant for costs.(b) it otherwise becomes unnecessary for the plaintiff to continue the proceedings against the defendant,rules 16.8, 16.9: Am 2007 (327), Sch 1 [2].
16.10 Judgment not limited by plaintiff’s claims for relief
(cf SCR Part 17, rules 9 and 10 (2))
Whatever the plaintiff’s claims for relief against a defendant in default, the court may, on application by the plaintiff, give such judgment against the defendant as the plaintiff appears to be entitled to on his or her statement of claim.
Part 17 Admissions
17.1 Definitions
In this Part, other than rule 17.5:the admitting party means a party who is admitting, or being asked to admit, any matter.the requesting party means a party in whose favour another party is admitting, or being asked to admit, any matter.
17.2 Voluntary admissions of fact
(cf SCR Part 18, rule 1; DCR Part 15, rule 1; LCR Part 14, rule 1)
(1) The admitting party may, by a notice served on the requesting party, admit, in favour of the requesting party only and for the purposes of the proceedings only, the facts specified in the notice.(2) The admitting party may, with the leave of the court, withdraw any such admission.
17.3 Notice to admit facts
(cf SCR Part 18, rule 2; DCR Part 15, rule 2; LCR Part 14, rule 2)
(1) The requesting party may, by a notice served on the admitting party (the requesting party’s notice), require the admitting party to admit, for the purposes of the proceedings only, the facts specified in the notice.(2) If, as to any fact specified in the requesting party’s notice, the admitting party does not, within 14 days after service on the admitting party of the requesting party’s notice, serve on the requesting party a notice disputing that fact, that fact is, for the purposes of the proceedings only, taken to have been admitted by the admitting party in favour of the requesting party only.(3) The admitting party may, with the leave of the court, withdraw any such admission.
17.4 Notice to admit documents
(cf SCR Part 18, rule 5; DCR Part 15, rule 5; LCR Part 14, rule 3)
(1) The requesting party may, by a notice served on the admitting party (the requesting party’s notice), require the admitting party to admit the authenticity of the documents specified in the notice.(2) If, as to any document specified in the requesting party’s notice, the admitting party does not, within 14 days after service on the admitting party of the requesting party’s notice, serve on the requesting party a notice disputing the authenticity of that document, the authenticity of that document is, for the purposes of the proceedings only, taken to have been admitted by the admitting party in favour of the requesting party only.(3) The admitting party may, with the leave of the court, withdraw any such admission.
17.5 Admission of documents discovered
(cf SCR Part 18, rule 4; DCR Part 15, rule 4)
(1) In this rule:admitting party means the party on whom a list of documents is served under rule 21.3.requesting party means the party by whom a list of documents is served under rule 21.3.(2) If a requesting party allows inspection of any documents referred to in a list of documents under rule 21.5, the admitting party is taken to have made the following admissions in favour of the requesting party, unless the court orders otherwise:(a) in respect of each document described in the list as an original document, that the document is an original document and was printed, written, signed or executed as it purports to have been,(b) in respect of each document described in the list as a copy of an original document, that the document is a true copy.(3) Subrule (2) does not apply to a document referred to in the list of documents if the admitting party:(a) has, by his or her pleading, denied the authenticity of the document, or(b) has served on the requesting party, within 14 days after the time limited under rule 21.5 for inspection of a document, a notice to the effect that the admitting party disputes the authenticity of the document.(4) The admitting party and the requesting party are taken to be in the same position as they would have been in had the admitting party, on the date of service of the list of documents, served on the requesting party a notice requiring production at the trial of such of the documents specified in the list as are in the possession of the requesting party.rule 17.5: Am 2005 (808), Sch 1 [2]–[4].
17.6 Restricted effect of admission
(cf SCR Part 18, rule 6; DCR Part 15, rule 6; LCR Part 14, rule 6)
An admission made under this Part in connection with any proceedings:(a) may not be used in those proceedings except in favour of the party in whose favour it was made, and(b) is taken to have been made for the purposes of those proceedings only.
17.7 Judgment on admissions
(cf SCR Part 18, rule 3; DCR Part 15, rule 3; LCR Part 14, rule 5)
(1) If admissions are made by a party, whether by his or her pleadings or otherwise, the court may, on the application of any other party, give any judgment or make any order to which the other party is entitled on the admissions.(2) The court may exercise its powers under this rule even if the other questions in the proceedings have not been determined.
Part 18 Motions
18.1 Applications for court orders to be made by motion
(cf SCR Part 19, rule 1; DCR Part 16, rule 1; LCR Part 15, rule 1)
An interlocutory or other application is to be made by motion unless these rules otherwise provide.
18.2 Requirement for notice
(cf SCR Part 19, rule 2; DCR Part 16, rule 2; LCR Part 15, rule 2)
(1) A person may not move the court to make any order unless notice of motion has been filed and served on each person affected by the proposed order.(2) Despite subrule (1), a person may move the court to make an order without notice of motion having been filed or served on a person if:(a) that person consents to the making of the order, or(b) the preparation, filing or service of the notice would cause undue delay or other prejudice to the person by whom the order is sought, or(c) the court dispenses with the requirement for such notice to be filed or served, or(d) under these rules or the practice of the court, the motion may be made without the prior filing or service (as the case may be) of notice of motion.
18.3 Contents of notice of motion
(cf SCR Part 19, rule 2 (4) and (5); DCR Part 16, rule 2 (3) and (4); LCR Part 15, rule 2 (3) and (3A))
(1) A notice of motion for an order:(a) must identify the person by whom the order is sought:(i) if the person is already a party to the proceedings, as that party (for example, as first plaintiff or second defendant), or(ii) if the person is not yet a party to the proceedings, as the applicant, and(b) must identify each person affected by the order:(i) if that person is already a party to the proceedings, as that party (for example, as second plaintiff or first defendant), or(ii) if that person is not yet a party to the proceedings, as the respondent, and(c) if the person by whom the order is sought is not already an active party, must state an address for service for that person, and(d) unless the motion is to be moved in the absence of the public, must state the date and time when, and the place where, the motion is to be moved, and(e) if the court makes an order as to the time by which the notice is to be served, must bear a note of the order made, and(f) must state concisely the nature of the proposed order.(1A) In the case of proceedings in Class 1, 2, 3 or 4 of the Land and Environment Court’s jurisdiction, a notice of motion must identify a person who is not yet a party to the proceedings by name alone, and not as the applicant or respondent as required by subrule (1) (a) (ii) or (b) (ii).(2) Costs need not be specifically claimed in the notice of motion.(3) If a notice of motion is of a kind that, under any Act, any rules of court or any practice of the court, is dealt with in the absence of the public, the notice of motion must contain a statement to the effect that the motion is to be so dealt with.(4) If it becomes necessary for an application under subrule (3) to be dealt with in court, the registrar is to refer it to the court and give notice to the parties that the application has been so referred.rule 18.3: Am 2005 (395), Sch 1 [30]; 2008 (338), Sch 1 [10].
18.4 Time for service of notice
(cf SCR Part 19, rule 3; DCR Part 16, rule 3; LCR Part 15, rule 3)
Unless the court orders otherwise, a notice of motion must be served at least 3 days before the date fixed for the motion.
18.5 Notice to be personally served on persons who have not entered appearance
(cf SCR Part 19, rule 4; LCR Part 15, rule 2 (4))
A notice of motion must be personally served if the person on whom it is to be served:(a) is not a party to the proceedings, or(b) is a party to the proceedings, but is not an active party (otherwise than because the party has failed to comply with the requirements of these rules with respect to entering an appearance).
18.6 Hearing of interlocutory applications
(cf LCR Part 15, rule 5)
(1) A party’s notice of motion in any proceedings must include, so far as practicable, all applications that the party desires to make in relation to the proceedings and that, having regard to the nature of the proceedings, can conveniently be dealt with at the one time.(2) On the hearing of a party’s notice of motion, any other party may make any application in relation to the proceedings.(3) If on the hearing of a party’s notice of motion, any other party makes an application under subrule (2), the court:(a) may deal with both applications at the hearing, or(b) may adjourn the hearing and, if appropriate, may direct any necessary notice of motion to be given to the other parties.
18.7 Motion may be dealt with in party’s absence
(cf SCR Part 19, rule 5; DCR Part 16, rule 5; LCR Part 15, rule 5 (2A))
If service of a notice of motion on any party is required by these rules, and notice of motion has been duly served on that party, the court may hear and dispose of the motion in the absence of that party.
18.8 Further hearing
(cf SCR Part 19, rule 8)
(1) If notice of a motion for any day has been filed or served, and the motion is not disposed of on that day:(a) the court may hear and dispose of the notice of motion on any later day fixed by the court, and(b) subject to subrule (2), filing or service of a further notice of motion is not required.(2) Subrule 1 (b) does not apply:(a) if the court directs the filing or service of a further notice of motion, or(b) if service is required on a person on whom notice of motion has not previously been served.
18.9 Directions as to conduct of proceedings on notice of motion
(cf SCR Part 34, rule 6 (1))
In proceedings on a notice of motion, the court may give directions as to the order of evidence and address and generally as to the conduct of the proceedings.
Part 19 Amendment
19.1 Amending a statement of claim
(cf SCR Part 15, rule 12, Part 20, rules 2 and 2A; DCR Part 17, rules 2 and 2A; LCR Part 16, rule 2)
(1) A plaintiff may, without leave, amend a statement of claim once within 28 days after the date on which it was filed, but, unless the court otherwise orders, may not amend it after a date has been fixed for trial.(2) If a plaintiff amends his or her statement of claim under subrule (1) after the defendant has filed a defence, the defendant may amend his or her defence at any time within 14 days after service of the amended statement of claim.(3) A plaintiff’s right to make an amendment under subrule (1) is not affected by any amendment the plaintiff has made under rule 7.22.rule 19.1: Am 2007 (164), Sch 1 [4].
19.2 Amendments to add or remove parties
(cf SCR Part 20, rule 2 (4) and (5); DCR Part 17, rule 2 (4) and (5); LCR Part 16, rule 2 (3A) and (3B))
(1) Subject to subrules (2) and (3), the amendments that may be made under rule 19.1 include an amendment that would have the effect of adding a party to, or removing a party from, the proceedings.(2) An amendment that would have the effect of adding a person as a plaintiff in proceedings in which a solicitor is acting for the current plaintiff may not be made unless, at the time the amendment is made, the same solicitor:(a) is acting for the person to be added, and(b) certifies on the amended document:(i) that he or she is acting for the person to be added, and(ii) that the person to be added consents to being added as a plaintiff.(3) An amendment that would have the effect of removing a party from the proceedings may not be made unless that party consents to being removed from the proceedings.(4) If a person is added as a party under this rule, the date of commencement of the proceedings in relation to that person is taken to be the date on which the amended document is filed.
19.3 Duration of leave or consent
(cf SCR Part 20, rule 5 (1))
An order giving leave to amend a document ceases to have effect:(a) at the expiration of the time specified in the order as the time within which the amendment must be made, or(b) if no such time is specified, at the expiration of 14 days after the date on which the order is made.
19.4 Disallowance of amendment
(cf SCR Part 20, rule 3; DCR Part 17, rule 3; LCR Part 16, rule 3)
(1) If a party amends a pleading, as referred to in rule 19.1 (1) or (2), the court may, by order, disallow the amendment.(2) Unless the court orders otherwise, notice of motion for such an order must be filed within 14 days after the date on which the amended document was served on the applicant.(3) If, on the hearing of an application for an order under this rule, the court is satisfied that, had an application for leave to make the amendment been made, it would not have granted leave to make the whole or some part of the amendment, the court must disallow the amendment or that part, as the case may be.
19.5 Mode of amendment generally
(cf SCR Part 20, rules 7 and 8; DCR Part 17, rules 7 and 8; LCR Part 16, rules 7 and 8)
(1) Subject to any directions referred to in rule 19.6, amendments to a filed document must be made by filing a fresh document that has been amended in accordance with these rules or pursuant to an order of the court.(2) The amendments must be indicated as follows:(a) the omission of existing matter must be indicated in such manner (such as striking through the matter, with or without underlining) as does not affect the legibility of the matter being omitted, and(b) the insertion of new matter must be indicated in such manner (such as the use of underlining, bolding or italics) as distinguishes it from existing matter (including existing matter to be omitted).(3) A document amended under this rule must be marked with the following particulars:(a) the date of the amendment,(b) if the amendment is made pursuant to an order of the court, the date of the order,(c) if the amendment is made otherwise than pursuant to an order of the court, a reference to the provision of these rules that authorises the amendment,(d) the manner in which the omission and insertion of matter have been indicated in the amended document.(4) An amended document must retain the existing paragraph numbering, with any additional paragraphs that are inserted after an existing paragraph bearing the number of that paragraph together with the letters “A”, “B” and so on, as in these rules.rule 19.5: Subst 2005 (808), Sch 1 [5]. Am 2007 (579), Sch 1 [17].
19.6 Court may give directions as to mode of amendment
(cf SCR Part 20, rule 6; DCR Part 17, rule 6; LCR Part 16, rule 6)
If the court orders, or grants leave for, the amendment of a filed document, the court may give such directions as it thinks fit concerning:(a) the mode of amendment, and(b) the mode of service of the amended document or of notice of the amendment, and(c) the time within which the amended document or notice of amendment is to be filed and served.
Part 20 Resolution of proceedings without hearing
Division 1 Mediation
20.1 Application of Division
This Division applies to matters referred to mediation under Part 4 of the Civil Procedure Act 2005.
20.2 Directions
(cf SCR Part 72C, rule 1)
The court may give directions regulating the practice and procedure to be followed in a mediation, including the preparation and service of documents.
20.3 Statements as to proposed referral to mediation
(cf SCR Part 72C, rule 2; Act No 9 1973, section 164A; Act No 11 1970, section 21L)
On any occasion that proceedings are before the court for directions, the court may require each active party to state any of the following:(a) whether the party consents to referral of a matter arising in the proceedings for mediation,(b) whether the parties agree as to who is to be the mediator,(c) whether the parties agree as to the proportions in which the costs of mediation are to be borne, and the terms of any such agreement.
20.4 Appointments by mediator
(cf SCR Part 72C, rule 3)
(1) Within 7 days after being notified that a matter has been referred for mediation, the mediator to whom the matter is referred must appoint a time for the mediation and notify the parties, in writing, of the time appointed.(2) The mediator may also appoint a time for a preliminary meeting of the parties.
20.5 Completion of mediation
(cf SCR Part 72C, rule 4)
The parties and the mediator must conduct the mediation with the object, so far as practicable, of completing the mediation within 28 days.
20.6 Mediation session procedure
(cf SCR Part 72C, rule 6)
(1) The following provisions apply to the conduct of a mediation session unless the mediator, or the court, otherwise directs:(a) the session must be attended:(i) subject to subparagraph (ii), by each party or, if a party is a corporation, by an officer of the corporation having authority to settle the proceedings, or(ii) if the conduct of the proceedings by a party is controlled by an insurer, by an officer of the insurer having authority to settle the proceedings,(b) a party may be accompanied by that party’s barrister or solicitor at the session.(2) A person who is required by subrule (1) (a) to attend a mediation session may do so by telephone, video link or other form of communication, but only with the leave of the court or the mediator.rule 20.6: Am 2008 (494), Sch 1 [6].
20.7 Notifications after mediation
Within 7 days after the conclusion of the last mediation session, the mediator must advise the court of the following:(a) the time and date the first mediation session commenced, and(b) the time and date the last mediation session concluded.rule 20.7: Subst 2009 (88), Sch 1 [11].
Division 2 Arbitration
20.8 Proceedings that may not be referred to arbitration
(cf DCR Part 51A, rule 2; LCR Part 38, rule 12)
For the purposes of section 38 (3) (b) of the Civil Procedure Act 2005, the following proceedings may not be referred for arbitration unless the parties consent or the court finds there are special circumstances to justify their referral:(a) proceedings in which there is an allegation of fraud,(b) proceedings in the Small Claims Division of the Local Court.
20.9 Reference to arbitration under Part 5 of the Civil Procedure Act 2005
(cf SCR Part 72B, rule 1; DCR Part 51A, rule 3; LCR Part 38, rule 3)
(1) If an arbitrator is not prepared to hear or determine referred proceedings, whether before or after any hearing has commenced, the arbitrator must as soon as practicable inform the referring court of that fact, specifying his or her reasons.(2) If an arbitrator declines or fails to hear and determine referred proceedings, the referring court must revoke the order referring the proceedings to the arbitrator and may make another order referring the proceedings to another arbitrator.
20.10 Medical reports
(cf SCR Part 72B, rule 2; DCR Part 51A, rule 6; LCR Part 38, rule 7)
(1) In this rule, medical expert includes dentist, medical practitioner, occupational therapist, physiotherapist and psychologist.(2) A medical expert’s written report as to a person’s past, present or probable future physical or mental condition:(a) is not admissible unless it has been served on each of the active parties no later than 28 days before the arbitration hearing, andunless the referring court or the arbitrator orders otherwise.(b) if so served, is admissible as evidence of the matters contained in it,(3) At any arbitration, a party is not entitled to adduce a medical expert’s oral evidence as to a person’s past, present or probable future physical or mental condition unless the referring court or the arbitrator so directs or unless each of the parties consent.
20.11 Award of arbitrator
(cf SCR Part 72B, rule 3; DCR Part 51A, rule 9; LCR Part 38, rule 10)
(1) An arbitrator’s award, and his or her reasons for the award, are to be in or to the effect of the approved form.(2) An arbitrator’s reasons for an award are to be specified so that, in his or her opinion, they make the parties aware of his or her view of the case made by each of them.(3) If a party fails to attend a hearing before an arbitrator, the arbitrator must include in his or her reasons for an award the fact that the party failed to attend and any information known to the arbitrator relating to the party’s reasons for the failure to attend.(4) As soon as practicable after receiving an arbitrator’s award, the registrar must send to each of the parties a copy of the award, with the date of sending set out in the award or in a notice accompanying the award.(5) For the purposes of subrule (4), date of sending means the date of leaving, sending, transmitting or otherwise serving copies of the award.
20.12 Rehearing
(cf SCR Part 72B, rule 5; DCR Part 51A, rule 11; LCR Part 38, rule 12)
(1) An application under section 42 of the Civil Procedure Act 2005 for the rehearing of referred proceedings is to be made by notice of motion.(2) On the date fixed for the proceedings to be listed before the court, or any date to which the proceedings are adjourned, the court must make a determination as to whether the proceedings are to be a full rehearing or a limited rehearing.(3) Before the record of any proceedings is brought before the court for a rehearing, the registrar must seal within the record, or separate from the record, both the application for rehearing and all information as to the nature and quantum of the arbitrator’s award.(4) Despite subrule (3), the court is not required to disqualify itself from rehearing the proceedings because it becomes aware in any manner of information as to the nature or quantum of the arbitrator’s award.(5) Unless the court otherwise orders, matter that has been sealed within the record is not to be opened, and matter that has been separated from the record is not to be returned to the record, until after the rehearing has been determined.
Division 3 References to referees
20.13 Definitions
(cf SCR Part 72, rule 1)
In this Division:order of referral means an order in force under rule 20.14.question includes any question or issue arising in any proceedings, whether of fact or law, or both, and whether raised by pleadings, agreement of parties or otherwise.
20.14 Orders of referral
(cf SCR Part 72, rule 2)
(1) At any stage of the proceedings, the court may make orders for reference to a referee appointed by the court for inquiry and report by the referee on the whole of the proceedings or on any question arising in the proceedings.(2) The court must not make an order under subrule (1) in respect of a question to be tried with a jury.
20.15 Appointment of referees
(cf SCR Part 72, rule 3)
(1) Subject to this rule, the court may appoint any person as a referee.(2) A judicial officer or other officer of the court may not act as a referee otherwise than with the concurrence of the senior judicial officer.
20.16 Two or more referees
(cf SCR Part 72, rule 4)
(1) If the court appoints 2 referees and a decision to be made in the course of proceedings under the reference is not agreed, the decision that is binding is:(a) if a judicial officer is a referee, the decision of the judicial officer, or(b) in any other case, the decision of the referee appointed by the court to be senior referee.(2) If the court appoints 3 or more referees, any decision to be made in the course of proceedings under the reference may be made by a majority of the referees and, failing a majority, the decision that is binding is:(a) if a judicial officer is a referee, the decision of the judicial officer, or(b) in any other case, the decision of the referee appointed by the court to be senior referee.
20.17 Inquiry and report
(cf SCR Part 72, rule 5)
(1) The court may, at any time and from time to time:(a) authorise the referee to inquire into and report on any facts relevant to the inquiry and report on the matter referred, and(b) direct the referee to make a further or supplemental report or inquiry and report, and(c) give such instructions as the court thinks fit relating to the inquiry or report.(2) Instructions under subrule (1) (c) may include provision concerning any experiment or test for the purposes of any inquiry or report of a referee.
20.18 Remuneration of referee
(cf SCR Part 72, rule 6)
(1) The court:(a) may determine the amount of the fees to be paid to a referee, and(b) may direct how, when and by whom the whole or any part of any such fees are to be payable, and(c) may determine the consequences of failure to comply with a direction under paragraph (b).(2) Subrule (1) does not affect the powers of the court as to costs.
20.19 Court rooms
(cf SCR Part 72, rule 7)
The court may give directions for the provision:(a) of services of officers of the court, andfor the purpose of any reference under this Division.(b) of court rooms and other facilities,
20.20 Conduct of proceedings under the reference
(cf SCR Part 72, rule 8)
(1) The court may give directions with respect to the conduct of proceedings under the reference.(2) Subject to any direction under subrule (1):(a) the referee may conduct the proceedings under the reference in such manner as the referee thinks fit, and(b) in conducting proceedings under the reference, the referee is not bound by the rules of evidence but may inform himself or herself in relation to any matter in such manner as the referee thinks fit.(3) Evidence before the referee:(a) may be given orally or in writing, and(b) if the referee so requires, must, be given on oath or by affidavit.(4) A referee may take the examination of any person.(5) Each party must, within a time fixed by the referee but in any event before the conclusion of evidence on the inquiry, give to the referee and each other party a brief statement of the findings of fact and law for which the party contends.(6) The parties must at all times do all things which the referee requires to enable a just opinion to be reached and no party may wilfully do or cause to be done any act to delay or prevent an opinion being reached.
20.21 Interlocutory directions
(cf SCR Part 72, rule 9)
The court may, at any time and from time to time, on application of the referee or of a party, give directions with respect to any matter arising in proceedings under the reference.
20.22 Setting aside or variation of reference
(cf SCR Part 72, rule 10)
(1) The court may, of its own motion or on application by a referee or a party, set aside or vary any order of referral.(2) Nothing in this rule affects any other power of the court to set aside or vary an order of referral.
20.23 Report
(cf SCR Part 72, rules 11 and 12)
(1) Unless the court orders otherwise, the referee must make a written report to the court on the matter referred to the referee, annexing the statements given under rule 20.20 (5) and stating:(a) the referee’s opinion on the matter, and(b) the referee’s reasons for that opinion.(2) On receipt of the report, the court must send it to the parties.
20.24 Proceedings on the report
(cf SCR Part 72, rule 13)
(1) If a report is made under rule 20.23, the court may on a matter of fact or law, or both, do any of the following:(a) it may adopt, vary or reject the report in whole or in part,(b) it may require an explanation by way of report from the referee,(c) it may, on any ground, remit for further consideration by the referee the whole or any part of the matter referred for a further report,and must, in any event, give such judgment or make such order as the court thinks fit.(d) it may decide any matter on the evidence taken before the referee, with or without additional evidence,(2) Evidence additional to the evidence taken before the referee may not be adduced before the court except by leave of the court.
Division 4 Compromise
20.25 Definitions
(cf SCR Part 22, rule 3)
In this Division:final deadline for an offer means:(a) if the trial is before a jury, the time at which the judicial officer begins to sum up to the jury, or(b) if the proceedings have been referred for arbitration, the conclusion of the arbitration hearing, or(c) in any other case, the time at which the judicial officer begins to give his or her decision or his or her reasons for decision, whichever is the earlier, on a judgment (except an interlocutory judgment).offer means an offer of compromise referred to in rule 20.26.period for acceptance for an offer means the period from when the offer is made until:(a) the expiration of the time limited by the offer or, if no time is limited, the expiration of 28 days after the offer is made, orwhichever first occurs.(b) the final deadline for offers in respect of the claim to which the offer relates,
20.26 Making of offer
(cf SCR Part 22, rules 1A, 2, 3 and 4; DCR Part 19A, rules 1, 2, 2A, 3 and 4; LCR Part 17A, rules 2 and 5)
(1) In any proceedings, any party may, by notice in writing, make an offer to any other party to compromise any claim in the proceedings, either in whole or in part, on specified terms.(2) An offer must be exclusive of costs, except where it states that it is a verdict for the defendant and that the parties are to bear their own costs.(3) A notice of offer:(a) must bear a statement to the effect that the offer is made in accordance with these rules, and(b) if the offeror has made or been ordered to make an interim payment to the offeree, must state whether or not the offer is in addition to the payment so made or ordered.(4) Despite subrule (1), a plaintiff may not make an offer unless the defendant has been given such particulars of the plaintiff’s claim, and copies or originals of such documents available to the plaintiff, as are necessary to enable the defendant to fully consider the offer.(5) If a plaintiff makes an offer, no order may be made in favour of the defendant on the ground that the plaintiff has not supplied particulars or documents, or has not supplied sufficient particulars or documents, unless:(a) the defendant has informed the plaintiff in writing of that ground within 14 days after receiving the offer, or(b) the court orders otherwise.(6) An offer may be expressed to be limited as to the time it is open for acceptance.(7) The following provisions apply if an offer is limited as to the time it is open for acceptance:(a) the closing date for acceptance of the offer must not be less than 28 days after the date on which the offer is made, in the case of an offer made 2 months or more before the date set down for commencement of the trial,(b) the offer must be left open for such time as is reasonable in the circumstances, in the case of an offer made less than 2 months before the date set down for commencement of the trial.(8) Unless the notice of offer otherwise provides, an offer providing for the payment of money, or the doing of any other act, is taken to provide for the payment of that money, or the doing of that act, within 28 days after acceptance of the offer.(9) An offer is taken to have been made without prejudice, unless the notice of offer otherwise provides.(10) A party may make more than one offer in relation to the same claim.(11) Unless the court orders otherwise, an offer may not be withdrawn during the period of acceptance for the offer.(12) A notice of offer that purports to exclude, modify or restrict the operation of rule 42.14 or 42.15 is of no effect for the purposes of this Division.
20.27 Acceptance of offer
(cf SCR Part 22, rule 3; DCR Part 19A, rule 3; LCR Part 17A, rule 5)
(1) A party may accept an offer by serving written notice of acceptance on the offeror at any time during the period of acceptance for the offer.(2) An offer may be accepted even if a further offer is made during the period of acceptance for the first offer.(3) If an offer is accepted in accordance with this rule, any party to the compromise may apply for judgment to be entered accordingly.
20.28 Withdrawal of acceptance
(cf SCR Part 22, rule 5; DCR Part 19A, rule 5; LCR Part 17A, rule 7)
(1) A party who accepts an offer may withdraw the acceptance in any of the following circumstances by serving written notice of withdrawal on the offeror:(a) if the offer provides for payment of money, or the doing of any other act, and the sum is not paid to the offeree or into court, or the act is not done, within 28 days after acceptance of the offer or within such other time as the offer provides, or(b) if the court grants the party leave to withdraw the acceptance.(2) If acceptance of an offer is withdrawn:(a) except as provided by paragraph (b), all steps in the proceedings that have been taken as a consequence of the offer having been accepted cease to have effect, and(b) the court may give directions:(i) to restore the parties as nearly as may be to their positions at the time of the acceptance, and(ii) to give effect to any steps in the proceedings that have been taken as a consequence of the offer having been accepted, andand may do so either after the offer is withdrawn or when granting leave to withdraw the offer.(iii) to provide for the further conduct of the proceedings,
20.29 Failure to comply with accepted offer
(cf SCR Part 22, rule 8; DCR Part 19A, rule 8; LCR Part 17A, rule 10)
(1) If the plaintiff, being a party to an accepted offer, fails to comply with the terms of the offer, the defendant is entitled:(a) to such judgment or order as is appropriate to give effect to the terms of the accepted offer, oras the defendant elects, unless the court orders otherwise.(b) to an order that the proceedings be dismissed, and to judgment accordingly,(2) If the defendant, being a party to an accepted offer, fails to comply with the terms of the offer, the plaintiff is entitled:(a) to such judgment or order as is appropriate to give effect to the terms of the accepted offer, oras the plaintiff elects, unless the court orders otherwise.(b) to an order that the defence be struck out, and to judgment accordingly,(3) If a party to an accepted offer fails to comply with the terms of the offer, and a defendant in the proceedings has made a statement of cross-claim or cross-summons that is not the subject of the accepted offer, the court:(a) may make such order or give such judgment under this rule, andas it thinks fit.(b) may make such order as to the further conduct of proceedings on the statement of cross-claim or cross-summons,
20.30 Disclosure of offer to court or arbitrator
(cf SCR Part 22, rule 7; DCR Part 19A, rule 7; LCR Part 17A, rule 9)
(1) No statement of the fact that an offer has been made may be contained in any pleading or affidavit.(2) If an offer is not accepted, no communication with respect to the offer may be made to the court at the trial or, as the case may require, to the arbitrator.(3) Despite subrule (2), an offer may be disclosed to the court or, as the case may require, to the arbitrator:(a) if a notice of offer provides that the offer is not made without prejudice, or(b) to the extent necessary to enable the offer to be taken into account for the purpose of determining an amount of interest up to judgment, or(c) after all questions of liability and relief have been determined, to the extent necessary to determine questions as to costs, or(d) to the extent necessary to enable the offer to be taken into account for the purposes of section 73 (4) of the Motor Accidents Act 1988, section 137 (4) of the Motor Accidents Compensation Act 1999 or section 151M of the Workers Compensation Act 1987.
20.31 Compromises in certain Supreme Court proceedings
(cf SCR Part 8, rule 14)
(1) This rule applies to proceedings in the Supreme Court concerning:(a) the administration of a deceased person’s estate, or(b) property the subject of a trust, orinvolving any matter in which one or more persons have the same interest or liability.(c) the construction of an Act, instrument or other document,(2) The court may approve a compromise:(a) that one party has assented to, orbeing in either case a compromise that affects other persons (not being parties) having the same interest or liability, but only if the court is satisfied that the compromise will be to the benefit of those other persons.(b) that the court has sanctioned on behalf of one party,(3) A compromise referred to in subrule (2) binds the absent persons unless the court’s approval of the compromise has been obtained by fraud or non-disclosure of material facts.
20.32 Offer to contribute
(cf SCR Part 22, rule 12; DCR Part 19A, rule 11; LCR Part 17A, rule 13)
(1) If in any proceedings:(a) one party (the first party) stands to be held liable to another party (the second party) to contribute towards any debt or damages which may be recovered against the second party in the proceedings, and(b) the first party, at any time after entering an appearance, makes an offer to the second party to contribute to a specified extent to the debt or damages, andthe offer must not be brought to the attention of the court or any arbitrator until all questions of liability or amount of debt or damages have been decided.(c) the offer is made without prejudice to the first party’s defence,(2) In subrule (1), debt or damages includes any interest up to judgment claimed on any debt or damages.
Division 5
20.33 (Repealed)
pt 20, div 5 (rule 20.33): Rep 2007 (164), Sch 1 [5].
Division 6 Acknowledgment of liquidated claim
20.34 Defendant may file acknowledgment
(cf DCR Part 14, rule 2; LCR Part 12, rule 2)
(1) In proceedings with respect to a liquidated claim, the defendant may file a statement acknowledging the whole of the amount of the claim.(2) Subrule (1) does not apply if the defendant has filed a defence or the plaintiff has, in accordance with these rules, filed an application for a default judgment.(3) On the filing of a statement under subrule (1), judgment is to be entered for the plaintiff for the whole of the amount of the claim.(4) Judgment entered as referred to in subrule (3) fully discharges all of the plaintiff’s claims in the proceedings.(5) In proceedings in which a default judgment has been set aside under rule 36.15 or 36.16, the defendant may not file a statement referred to in subrule (1) except by leave of the court.Note—See rule 6.11 which allows the defendant in proceedings on a liquidated claim to submit to judgment by his or her notice of appearance.
Part 21 Discovery, inspection and notice to produce documents
Division 1 Discovery and inspection
21.1 Definitions
(cf SCR Part 23, rule 1; DCR Part 22, rule 1)
(1) In this Division:excluded document, in relation to proceedings the subject of an order for discovery, means any of the following documents:(a) any document filed in the proceedings,(b) any document served on party A after the commencement of the proceedings,(c) any document that wholly came into existence after the commencement of the proceedings,(d) any additional copy of a document included in the list of documents, being a document that contains no mark, deletion or other matter, relevant to a fact in question, not present in the document so included,but does not include any document that the court declares not to be an excluded document for the purposes of those proceedings.(e) any document comprising an original written communication sent by party B prior to the date of commencement of the proceedings of which a copy is included in the list of documents,list of documents means a list of documents referred to in rule 21.3.order for discovery means an order referred to in rule 21.2.party A means a party to whom another party is giving discovery, or being ordered to give discovery, of documents.party B means a party who is giving discovery, or being ordered to give discovery, of documents.party B’s affidavit means an affidavit prepared in relation to the list of documents under rule 21.4.Note—See the Dictionary for further definitions including, in particular, a definition of possession.(2) For the purposes of this Division, a document or matter is to be taken to be relevant to a fact in issue if it could, or contains material that could, rationally affect the assessment of the probability of the existence of that fact (otherwise than by relating solely to the credibility of a witness), regardless of whether the document or matter would be admissible in evidence.
21.2 Order for discovery
(cf SCR Part 23, rule 3 (1), (2) and (3); DCR Part 22, rule 3 (1), (2) and (3))
(1) The court may order that party B must give discovery to party A of:(a) documents within a class or classes specified in the order, or(b) one or more samples (selected in such manner as the court may specify) of documents within such a class.(2) A class of documents must not be specified in more general terms than the court considers to be justified in the circumstances.(3) Subject to subrule (2), a class of documents may be specified:(a) by relevance to one or more facts in issue, or(b) by description of the nature of the documents and the period within which they were brought into existence, or(c) in such other manner as the court considers appropriate in the circumstances.(4) An order for discovery may not be made in respect of a document unless the document is relevant to a fact in issue.rule 21.2: Am 2007 (164), Sch 1 [6].
21.3 List of documents to be prepared
(cf SCR Part 23, rule 3 (5) and (6); DCR Part 22, rule 3 (5) and (6))
(1) Party B must comply with an order for discovery by serving on party A a list of documents that deals with all of the documents (other than excluded documents) referred to in the order.(2) The list of documents:(a) must be divided into two parts:(i) Part 1 relating to documents in the possession of party B, and(ii) Part 2 relating to documents that are not, but that within the last 6 months prior to the commencement of the proceedings have been, in the possession of party B, and(b) must include a brief description (by reference to nature and date or period) of each document or group of documents and, in the case of a group, the number of documents in that group, and(c) must specify, against the description of each document or group in Part 2 of the list of documents, the person (if any) who party B believes to be in possession of the document or group of documents, and(d) must identify any document that is claimed to be a privileged document, and specify the circumstances under which the privilege is claimed to arise.(3) Party B must comply with the requirements of subrule (1):(a) within 28 days after an order for discovery is made, or(b) within such other period (whether more or less than 28 days) as the order may specify.rule 21.3: Am 2005 (625), Sch 1 [13].
21.4 Affidavit and certificate supporting list of documents
(cf SCR Part 23, rule 3 (5), (6) and (7); DCR Part 22, rule 3 (5), (6) and (7))
(1) The list of documents must be accompanied by:(a) a supporting affidavit, and(b) if party B has a solicitor, by a solicitor’s certificate of advice.Note—See rule 35.3 as to who may make such an affidavit.(2) The affidavit referred to in subrule (1) (a) must state that the deponent:(a) has made reasonable inquiries as to the documents referred to in the order, and(b) believes that there are no documents (other than excluded documents) falling within any of the classes specified in the order that are, or that within the last 6 months before the commencement of the proceedings have been, in the possession of party B (other than those referred to in Part 1 or 2 of the list of documents), and(c) believes that the documents in Part 1 of the list of documents are within the possession of party B, and(d) believes that the documents in Part 2 of the list of documents are within the possession of the persons (if any) respectively specified in that Part, andand must state, in respect of any document that is claimed to be a privileged document, the facts relied on as establishing the existence of the privilege.(e) as to any document in Part 2 of the list of documents in respect of which no such person is specified, has no belief as to whose possession the document is in,(3) The solicitor’s certificate of advice referred to in subrule (1) (b) must state that the solicitor:(a) has advised party B as to the obligations arising under an order for discovery (and if party B is a corporation, which officers of party B have been so advised), and(b) is not aware of any documents within any of the classes specified in the order (other than excluded documents) that are, or that within the last 6 months before the commencement of the proceedings have been, in the possession of party B (other than those referred to in Part 1 or 2 of the list of documents).
21.5 Documents to be made available
(cf SCR Part 23, rule 3 (9) and (10); DCR Part 22, rule 3 (9) and (10))
(1) Subject to the requirements of any Act or law, Party B must ensure that the documents described in Part 1 of the list of documents (other than privileged documents):(a) are physically kept and arranged in a way that makes the documents readily accessible and capable of convenient inspection by party A, andfrom the time the list of documents is served on party A until the time the trial of the proceedings is completed.(b) are identified in a way that enables particular documents to be readily retrieved,(2) Within 21 days after service of the list of documents, or within such other period or at such other times as the court may specify, party B must, on request by party A:(a) produce for party A’s inspection the documents described in Part 1 of the list of documents (other than privileged documents), and(b) make available to party A a person who is able to, and does on party A’s request, explain the way the documents are arranged and assist in locating and identifying particular documents or classes of documents, and(c) provide facilities for the inspection and copying of such of the documents (other than privileged documents) as are not capable of being photocopied, and(d) provide photocopies of, or facilities for the photocopying of, such of the documents as are capable of being photocopied, subject to:(i) party A’s solicitor undertaking to pay the reasonable costs of providing those photocopies or facilities, or(ii) if party A has no solicitor, party A providing to party B an amount not less than a reasonable estimate of the reasonable costs of providing those photocopies or facilities.rule 21.5: Am 2006 (288), Sch 1 [6].
21.6 Subsequently found documents to be made available
(cf SCR Part 23, rule 3 (8); DCR Part 22, rule 3 (8))
If at any time after party B’s affidavit is made, and before the end of the hearing, party B becomes aware:(a) that any document within the class or classes specified in the relevant order for discovery (not being an excluded document) but not included in Part 1 of the list of documents is within, or has come into, party B’s possession, orparty B must forthwith give written notice to party A of that fact, and comply with rule 21.5 in respect of the document, as if the document had been included in Part 1 of the list of documents and the list had been served on the date of the giving of the notice.(b) that any document included in Part 1 of the list of documents which was claimed to be a privileged document was not, or has ceased to be, a privileged document,
21.7 Discovered documents not to be disclosed
(cf SCR Part 23, rule 3 (11) and (12); DCR Part 22, rule 3 (11) and (12))
(1) No copy of a document, or information from a document, obtained by party A as a result of discovery by party B is to be disclosed or used otherwise than for the purposes of the conduct of the proceedings, except by leave of the court, unless the document has been received into evidence in open court.(2) Nothing in subrule (1) affects the power of the court to make an order restricting the disclosure or use of any document, whether or not received into evidence, or the operation of any such order.
21.8 Personal injury claims
(cf SCR Part 23, rule 5; DCR Part 22, rule 5)
In any proceedings on a common law claim:(a) for damages arising out of the death of, or bodily injury to, any person, oran order for discovery may not be made in relation to any document unless the court, for special reasons, orders otherwise.(b) for contribution in respect of damages so arising,
Division 2 Notice to produce before hearing
21.9 Definitions
(1) In this Division:notice to produce means a notice to produce referred to in rule 21.10.party A means a party to whom another party is producing, or being asked to produce, documents or things for inspection.party B means a party who is producing, or being asked to produce, documents or things for inspection.(2) For the purposes of this Division, a document or thing is to be taken to be relevant to a fact in issue if it could, or contains material that could, rationally affect the assessment of the probability of the existence of that fact (otherwise than by relating solely to the credibility of a witness), regardless of whether the document or thing would be admissible in evidence.
21.10 Notice to produce for inspection by parties
(cf SCR Part 23, rule 2 (1); DCR Part 22, rule 2 (1), (1A) and (2))
(1) Party A may, by notice served on party B, require party B to produce for inspection by party A:(a) any document or thing that is referred to in any originating process, pleading, affidavit or witness statement filed or served by party B, and(b) any other specific document or thing that is clearly identified in the notice and is relevant to a fact in issue.(2) A notice to produce may specify a time for production of all or any of the documents or things required to be produced.
21.11 Production under notice to produce
(cf SCR Part 23, rule 2 (3) and (4); DCR Part 22, rule 2 (3) and (4))
(1) Unless the court orders otherwise, party B must, within a reasonable time after being served with a notice to produce:(a) produce for party A’s inspection such of the documents or things referred to in the notice (other than privileged documents) as are in party B’s possession, and(b) serve on party A, in respect of any document that is not produced, a notice stating:(i) that the document is a privileged document, or(ii) that the document is, to the best of party B’s knowledge, information and belief, in the possession of a person identified in the notice, or(iii) that party B has no knowledge, information or belief as to the existence or whereabouts of the document.(2) For the purposes of subrule (1):(a) unless party B establishes to the contrary, 14 days or longer after service of the notice is to be taken to be a reasonable time, and(b) unless party A establishes to the contrary, less than 14 days after service of the notice is to be taken to be less than a reasonable time.
21.12 Personal injury claims
(cf SCR Part 23, rule 5, Part 24, rule 1 (3); DCR Part 22, rule 5)
In any proceedings on a common law claim:(a) for damages arising out of the death of, or bodily injury to, any person, ora party is not required to comply with a notice to produce in relation to a document or thing that has not been referred to in any originating process, pleading, affidavit or witness statement filed or served by that party unless the court, for special reasons, orders otherwise.(b) for contribution in respect of damages so arising,
21.13 Costs and expenses of compliance
(cf rule 33.11)
(1) The court may order party A to pay the amount of any reasonable loss or expense incurred by party B in complying with a notice to produce.(2) If an order is made under subrule (1), the court must fix the amount or direct that it be fixed in accordance with the court’s usual procedure in relation to costs.rule 21.13: Ins 2007 (327), Sch 1 [4].
Part 22 Interrogatories
22.1 Interrogatories
(cf SCR Part 24, rules 1–6; DCR Part 22A, rules 1–6)
(1) At any stage of the proceedings, the court may order any party to answer specified interrogatories.(2) An application for such an order must be accompanied by a copy of the proposed interrogatories.(3) In the case of proceedings on:(a) a claim for damages arising out of the death of, or bodily injury to, any person, orsuch an order is not to be made unless the court is satisfied that special reasons exist that justify the making of the order.(b) a claim for contribution in relation to damages so arising,(4) In any case, such an order is not to be made unless the court is satisfied that the order is necessary at the time it is made.(5) An order to answer interrogatories:(a) may require the answers to be given within a specified time, and(b) may require the answers, or any of them, to be verified by affidavit, and(c) in circumstances in which rule 35.3 authorises someone other than the party to whom the order is addressed to make the relevant affidavit, may specify the person to make the affidavit, or the persons from whom the person to make the affidavit may be chosen, in relation to the interrogatories or any of them.
22.2 Objections to specific interrogatories
(cf SCR Part 24, rule 6 (3))
A party may not object to being ordered to answer an interrogatory except on the following grounds:(a) the interrogatory does not relate to any matter in issue between that party and the party seeking the order,(b) the interrogatory is vexatious or oppressive,(c) the answer to the interrogatory could disclose privileged information.
22.3 Answers to interrogatories
(cf SCR Part 24, rules 4 and 6; DCR Part 22A, rules 4 and 6)
(1) A party who has been ordered to answer interrogatories must do so within the time required by the order by serving a statement of answers on all other active parties.(2) Such a statement:(a) must deal with each interrogatory specifically, setting out each interrogatory followed by the answer to it, and(b) must answer the substance of each interrogatory without evasion, and(c) to the extent to which, and in the manner in which, the order so requires, must be verified by affidavit.Note—See rule 22.6 as to the admission in evidence of answers to interrogatories.
22.4 Insufficient answer
(cf SCR Part 24, rule 8; DCR Part 22A, rule 8)
(1) If a party who has been ordered to answer interrogatories under rule 22.1 fails to answer an interrogatory sufficiently within the time specified in the order or, if no such time is specified, within 28 days after being served with the order, the court:(a) may order the party to make a further answer, and to verify that further answer by affidavit, or(b) may order the party or, as the case requires, any person of the kind referred to in rule 35.3 (1), to attend to be orally examined.(2) This rule does not limit the power of the court under rule 22.5.
22.5 Default
(cf SCR Part 24, rule 9)
(1) If a party who has been ordered to answer interrogatories under rule 22.1 or 22.4 fails to answer an interrogatory sufficiently, the court may give or make such judgment or such order as it thinks fit, including:(a) if the party in default is a plaintiff, an order that the proceedings be stayed or dismissed as to the whole or any part of the relief claimed by the party in the proceedings, or(b) if the proceedings were commenced by statement of claim and the party in default is a defendant, an order that the party’s defence be struck out.(2) If a party has a solicitor, an order under rule 22.1 or 22.4 need not, for the purposes of enforcement of the order by committal or sequestration, be served personally.(3) If an order under rule 22.1 or 22.4 is not served personally on a party having a solicitor, the order may not be enforced by committal of any person, or by sequestration of any person’s property, if that person shows that he or she did not have notice of the order within sufficient time to comply with the order.
22.6 Answers to interrogatories as evidence
(cf SCR Part 24, rule 10; DCR Part 22A, rule 10)
(1) A party:(a) may tender as evidence one or more answers to interrogatories without tendering the others, and(b) may tender as evidence part of an answer to an interrogatory without tendering the whole of the answer.(2) If the whole or part of an answer to an interrogatory is tendered as evidence, the court:(a) may look at the whole of the answer, and(b) if it appears to the court that any other answer or any part of an answer is so connected with the matter tendered that the matter tendered ought not to be used without that other answer or part, may reject the tender unless that other answer or part is also tendered.
Part 23 Medical examinations and inspection of property
Division 1 Medical examination
23.1 Application and definitions
(cf SCR Part 25, rule 1; DCR Part 23, rule 1; LCR Part 20, rule 1)
(1) This Division applies to proceedings in which:(a) a person’s physical or mental condition is relevant to a matter in question, and(b) either:(i) that person is a party, or(ii) that person is a person for whose benefit a party is claiming relief under the Compensation to Relatives Act 1897.(2) In this Division:first party means the party referred to in subrule (1) (b).medical examination includes any examination by a medical expert but does not include tests referred to in Division 2.medical expert includes dentist, medical practitioner, occupational therapist, optometrist, physiotherapist and psychologist.notice for medical examination means a notice referred to in rule 23.2 (1).person concerned means the person referred to in subrule (1) (a) (whether or not the first party) whose physical or mental condition is relevant to a matter in question.
23.2 Notice for medical examination
(cf SCR Part 25, rule 2; DCR Part 23, rule 2; LCR Part 20, rule 2)
(1) Any party other than the first party may serve on the first party a notice for the medical examination of the person concerned.(2) A notice for medical examination is to be in the form of a request that the person concerned submit to examination by a specified medical expert at a specified time and place.
23.3 Expenses
(cf SCR Part 25, rule 3; DCR Part 23, rule 3; LCR Part 20, rule 3)
A party who serves a notice for medical examination must, on request by the first party, pay to the first party a reasonable sum to meet the travelling and other expenses of the person concerned of and incidental to the medical examination, including the expenses of having a medical expert chosen by the person attend the examination.
23.4 Order for examination
(cf SCR Part 25, rule 5; DCR Part 23, rule 5; LCR Part 20, rule 5)
(1) The court may make orders for medical examination, including an order that the person concerned submit to examination by a specified medical expert at a specified time and place.(2) If the court orders that the person concerned submit to examination by a medical expert, the person must do all things reasonably requested, and answer all questions reasonably asked, by the medical expert for the purposes of the examination.
23.5 Medical expert for person concerned
(cf SCR Part 25, rule 6; DCR Part 23, rule 6; LCR Part 20, rule 7)
The person concerned may have a medical expert of his or her choice attend a medical examination under this Division.
Division 2 Rehabilitation assessment
23.6 Application and definitions
(cf SCR Part 25, rule 7A; DCR Part 23, rule 7)
(1) This Division applies to proceedings in which the extent of impairment of a party’s earning capacity due to personal injuries to that party is relevant to any matter in question.(2) In this Division:occupational rehabilitation service has the same meaning as it has in section 59 of the Workers Compensation Act 1987.party concerned means the party referred to in subrule (1).
23.7 Order for rehabilitation tests
(cf SCR Part 25, rule 7B; DCR Part 23, rule 8)
(1) The court may make orders for testing the party concerned for the purpose of assessing the extent of impairment of the party’s earning capacity, including an order to submit to a test, under the direction of a medical practitioner, during a specified period and at a specified place.(2) The specified place referred to in subrule (1) may be:(a) a hospital, or(b) a rehabilitation centre conducted by a hospital, orat which treatment by way of rehabilitation, or an occupational rehabilitation service, is provided.(c) some other suitable place,(3) If the court makes an order under subrule (1) that the party concerned submit to a test, the party concerned must do all things reasonably requested, and answer all questions reasonably asked, by any medical practitioner, or by any person conducting the test, for the purposes of the test.(4) The terms on which the court may make orders under subrule (1) include terms for the payment by the party obtaining the order to the party concerned of any expense or loss incurred in complying with the order.
Division 3 Inspection of property
23.8 Inspection of property
(cf SCR Part 25, rule 8; DCR Part 23, rule 9; LCR Part 20, rule 8)
(1) For the purpose of enabling the proper determination of any matter in question in any proceedings, the court may make orders for any of the following:(a) the inspection of any property,(b) the taking of samples of any property,(c) the making of any observation of any property,(d) the trying of any experiment on or with any property,(e) the observation of any process.(2) An order under subrule (1) may authorise any person to enter any land, or to do any other thing, for the purpose of getting access to the property.(3) A party applying for an order under this rule must, so far as practicable, serve notice of motion on each person who would be affected by the order if made.(4) The court is not to make an order under this rule unless it is satisfied that sufficient relief is not available under section 169 of the Evidence Act 1995.(5) This rule extends to proceedings on an application for an order under Part 5 (Preliminary discovery and inspection).(6) In this rule, property includes any land and any document or other chattel, whether in the ownership or possession of a party or not.
Division 4 Default
23.9 Default
(cf SCR Part 25, rule 10; DCR Part 23, rule 10; LCR Part 20, rule 10)
(1) If a party makes default in compliance with this Part, or a notice or order under this Part, the court may give or make such judgment or such order as it thinks fit, including:(a) if the party in default is a plaintiff, an order that the proceedings be dismissed as to the whole or any part of the relief claimed by the party in the proceedings, or(b) if the proceedings were commenced by statement of claim and the party in default is a defendant, an order that the party’s defence be struck out and that judgment be given accordingly.(2) If a person for whose benefit relief is being claimed, not being a party, makes default in compliance with this Part, or an order under this Part, the court may give such judgment, or make such order, as it thinks fit, including an order that the proceedings be dismissed as to the relief so claimed.(3) This rule does not limit the powers of the court to punish for contempt.
Part 24 Taking evidence otherwise than at trial
24.1 Application of Part
This Part applies to proceedings in the Supreme Court or the District Court.
24.2 Construction of certain references
(cf SCR Part 27, rule 1)
In this Part, a reference to the Evidence on Commission Act 1995, or to a provision of that Act, includes a reference to the Foreign Evidence Act 1994 of the Commonwealth, or to the corresponding provision of that Act.
24.3 Order for examination of witness
(cf SCR Part 27, rule 1A; DCR Part 25, rule 1)
(1) For the purposes of any proceedings, the court may make an order for the examination of a person, otherwise than at trial, at any place:(a) in New South Wales, or(b) outside New South Wales, but in Australia, or(c) outside Australia.(2) An order under this rule:(a) must nominate the person by whom the examination is to be conducted (the examiner), and(b) may specify the time at which, or within which, the examination is to be conducted.
24.4 Judicial officer or court officer as examiner
(cf SCR Part 27, rule 1C; DCR Part 25, rule 3)
(1) A judicial officer or other officer of the court may not act as an examiner otherwise than with the concurrence of the senior judicial officer.(2) An applicant for an order for a person’s examination, outside New South Wales, by a judicial officer or other officer of the court may request the proposed examiner to certify the amount which in his or her opinion should be paid into court as provision for expenses of the examination.(3) Such an order may be expressed to be conditional on the payment into court, by such person and within such time as the court may specify, of not less than the amount certified in accordance with subrule (2).(4) If satisfied that the amount paid or payable into court is or may be insufficient to provide for the expenses of the examination, the court, on application of the registrar:(a) may make an order directing the party on whose application the order for examination was made to pay into court such further amount, and within such time, as the court may specify, and(b) may make an order:(i) staying the proceedings, so far as they concern the whole or any part of any claim for relief by that party, oruntil such payment is made.(ii) suspending the operation of the order for examination,(5) The registrar must apply so much of the amount paid into court as may from time to time be required for the purpose in the payment, to or at the direction of the examiner, of:(a) expenses incurred in relation to the examination, or(b) advances for expenses to be incurred in relation to the examination.(6) Any amount paid under subrule (5) that is not required for expenses in relation to the examination must be repaid into court.(7) After the conclusion of the examination, on the examiner certifying that no expenses in relation to the examination remain unpaid or unrecouped from the money in court, the registrar must, subject to any order of the court, refund to the person by whom the money was paid into court (and, if more than one, in the same proportions as their respective payments into court) any money remaining in court.
24.5 Letter of request
(cf SCR Part 27, rule 2; DCR Part 25, rule 5)
(1) After an order is made under section 6 (1) (c) or 20 (1) (c) of the Evidence on Commission Act 1995 for the issue of a letter of request, or an order of the same kind is made under section 9 or 23 of that Act, the party obtaining the order:(a) must lodge with the principal registrar:(i) a form of the appropriate letter of request, and(ii) the interrogatories (if any) and cross-interrogatories (if any) to accompany the letter of request, and(iii) if the letter of request is to be issued to the judicial authorities of a country in which English is not an official language appropriate to the place where the evidence is to be taken, and unless the court orders otherwise, a translation of the documents referred to in subparagraphs (i) and (ii) into an official language of that country appropriate to that place, and(b) must file:(i) a copy of each of the documents referred to in paragraph (a), and(ii) an undertaking by the party obtaining the order, or his or her solicitor, to pay all expenses incurred by the court, or by any person at the request of the court, in respect of the letter of request.(2) A translation filed under subrule (1) (a) must be certified by the person making it to be a correct translation, and the certificate must state the person’s full name and address and the office or qualification by reason of which the person so certifies.
24.6 Evidence otherwise than on oath
(cf SCR Part 27, rule 2B; DCR Part 25, rule 7)
Unless the court orders otherwise:(a) a person may be examined outside Australia, otherwise than on oath, under an order under rule 24.3 (1) (c), andif the person is examined or the evidence is taken in accordance with the procedure of the country concerned.(b) evidence of a person may be taken outside Australia, otherwise than on oath, under an order under section 6 (1) (c) or 20 (1) (c) of the Evidence on Commission Act 1995, or under an order of the same kind made under section 9 or 23 of that Act,
24.7 Documents for examiner
(cf SCR Part 27, rule 3; DCR Part 25, rule 8)
(1) The party obtaining an order for examination before an examiner must furnish the examiner with copies of such of the documents in the proceedings as are necessary to inform the examiner of the issues to which the examination is to relate.(2) If the documents in the proceedings are not sufficient to inform the examiner of the issues to which the examination is to relate, the court may, in the order for examination or in a later order, state the issues to which the examination is to relate.(3) This rule does not apply if the examiner is a judicial officer of the court by which the order for examination was made.
24.8 Appointment for examination
(cf SCR Part 27, rule 4; DCR Part 25, rule 9)
(1) The examiner is to appoint a place (and, subject to the order for examination, a time) for the examination.(2) The time appointed by the examiner must be as soon as practicable after the making of the order, having regard to all the circumstances (including the convenience of the person to be examined).(3) The examiner must give notice of an appointment under this rule to the party obtaining the order and, not less than 3 days before the time appointed, that party must give notice of the appointment to each other party.
24.9 Conduct of examination
(cf SCR Part 27, rule 5; DCR Part 25, rule 10)
(1) The examiner must permit the parties to attend the examination, together with their barristers and solicitors.(2) Subject to this Part, the proceedings before the examiner are to be in accordance with the procedure of the court.(3) Unless the court orders otherwise:(a) a person who is examined before an examiner may be cross-examined and re-examined, and(b) the examination, cross-examination and re-examination of such a person are to be conducted in the same way as at a trial.(4) The examiner may put any question to a person being examined:(a) as to the meaning of any answer made by that person, or(b) as to any matter arising in the course of the examination.(5) The examiner may adjourn the examination from time to time or from place to place.
24.10 Examination of additional persons
(cf SCR Part 27, rule 6; DCR Part 25, rule 11)
(1) On the application of a party to the proceedings, an examiner who is a judicial officer of the court may examine any person not named or provided for in the order for examination.(2) With the written consent of each party to the proceedings, an examiner who is not a judicial officer of the court may examine any person not named or provided for in the order for examination and, if he or she does so, must annex those consents to the transcript of that person’s evidence.
24.11 Objection
(cf SCR Part 27, rule 7; DCR Part 25, rule 12)
(1) If a party objects to a question put to a person being examined, or a person being examined objects to answering such a question or to producing any document or thing:(a) the examiner must state to the parties his or her opinion, but must not decide, on the validity of the objection, and(b) the question, the ground for the objection, the examiner’s opinion on the objection and the answer (if any) of the person being examined must be set out in the transcript of that person’s evidence or in a statement attached to the transcript, and(c) the court may, on motion by any party, decide the validity of the objection, and(d) if the court decides against the objector, the court may order the objector to pay the costs occasioned by the objection.(2) This rule does not apply if the examiner is a judicial officer of the court.
24.12 Recording of evidence generally
(cf SCR Part 27, rule 8; DCR Part 25, rule 13)
The evidence taken at an examination must be recorded in writing (whether longhand or shorthand) or by some other method (whether mechanical, electronic or otherwise) that is capable of making a permanent record of the evidence.
24.13 Audio-visual recording of evidence
(cf SCR Part 27, rule 8A; DCR Part 25, rule 14)
The court or the examiner may give directions for the making of an audio-visual recording of the proceedings on an examination.
24.14 Authentication and filing
(cf SCR Part 27, rule 9; DCR Part 25, rule 15)
(1) A transcript of the evidence recorded in relation to an examination must be prepared and the person who prepares the transcript must certify that it is a correct transcript of the evidence so recorded.(2) The examiner must sign the transcript of the evidence and any document that constitutes an audio-visual recording under rule 24.13.(3) The examiner must certify on the transcript, or on a separate document annexed to the transcript, as to the time occupied in the examination and as to the fees received by the examiner in respect of the examination.(4) The examiner must send the transcript of the evidence, and any document that constitutes an audio-visual recording under rule 24.13, to the registrar and the registrar must file them in the proceedings.(5) Unless the court orders otherwise, the examiner must send the exhibits to the registrar, and the registrar must deal with the exhibits in such manner as the court may direct.(6) Subrules (1), (3) and (4) do not apply if the examiner is a judicial officer of the court.
24.15 Special report
(cf SCR Part 27, rule 10; DCR Part 25, rule 16)
(1) The examiner may furnish to the court a special report with regard to any examination conducted by the examiner and with regard to the absence of any person from, or the conduct of any person at, the examination.(2) The court may direct such proceedings to be taken, or make such order, on the report as the court thinks fit.
24.16 Default of witness
(cf SCR Part 27, rule 11; DCR Part 25, rule 17)
(1) If a person, required by subpoena to attend before an examiner who is not a judicial officer of the court:(a) refuses to be sworn for the purposes of the examination, or(b) refuses to answer any lawful question, orthe examiner must, at the request of any party, give to that party a certificate, signed by the examiner, of the refusal.(c) refuses to produce any document or thing,(2) On the certificate being filed, and on motion by any party, the court:(a) may order the person to be sworn, or to answer the question or to produce the document or thing, as the case may be, and(b) may order the person to pay any costs occasioned by the refusal.
24.17 Order for payment of expenses
(cf SCR Part 27, rule 12; DCR Part 25, rule 18)
If a party fails to comply with an undertaking referred to in rule 24.5 (1) (b) (ii) within 7 days after service on the party of notice of the amount of the expenses concerned, the court:(a) may order the party to pay the amount of the expenses to the registrar by a specified date, and(b) if the party fails to comply with that order by the specified date, may give such judgment, or make such order, as it thinks fit.
24.18 Perpetuation of testimony
(cf SCR Part 27, rule 13; DCR Part 25, rule 19)
(1) Witnesses may not be examined to perpetuate testimony unless proceedings to perpetuate that testimony have been commenced.(2) Any person may commence proceedings to perpetuate testimony that may be material for establishing any right or claim to any relief, which right or claim cannot be established before the happening of a future event.(3) If proceedings to perpetuate testimony touch any matter or thing in which the Crown may have an interest, the Attorney General may be made a defendant.(4) If, under subrule (3), the Attorney General is made a defendant to proceedings to perpetuate testimony, evidence taken in those proceedings is not inadmissible in other proceedings just because the Crown was not a party to the proceedings to perpetuate testimony.(5) Subrule (2) does not affect the right of any person to commence proceedings to perpetuate testimony in cases to which that subrule does not apply.
24.19 Operation of directions under Evidence on Commission Act 1995
(cf SCR Part 27, rule 2A; DCR Part 25, rule 6)
To the extent to which they deal with matters arising under the Evidence on Commission Act 1995, the provisions of this Part are subject to any directions given by a superior court under section 7 or 21 of that Act.
24.20 Witness expenses
(cf DCR Part 25, rule 21)
A witness attending before an examiner to be examined, or to produce a document, is entitled to payment of the same amount for conduct money expenses and loss of time as he or she would have been entitled to on attending to give evidence, or to produce a document, at the trial of the proceedings before the court.
Part 25 Interim preservation
Division 1 General
pt 25, div 1, hdg: Ins 2006 (288), Sch 1 [7].
25.1 Application
(1) This Part applies to proceedings in the Supreme Court, Land and Environment Court or the District Court.(2) Divisions 2 and 3, but not this Division, also apply to proceedings in the Dust Diseases Tribunal.rule 25.1: Am 2006 (288), Sch 1 [8]; 2008 (494), Sch 1 [7].
25.2 Order in urgent case before commencement of proceedings
(cf SCR Part 28, rule 1)
(1) In an urgent case, the court, on the application of a person who intends to commence proceedings, may do any of the following:(a) it may make any order which the court might make in proceedings on an application for a writ of habeas corpus ad subjiciendum,(b) it may make any order for the custody of a minor,(c) it may grant any injunctive relief, including relief in the nature of a freezing order under Division 2 (Mareva relief) or a search order under Division 3 (an Anton Piller order),(d) it may make an order extending the operation of a caveat under:(i) the Real Property Act 1900, or(ii) the Offshore Minerals Act 1999, or(iii) the Offshore Minerals Act 1994 of the Commonwealth,(e) it may appoint a receiver,to the same extent as if the applicant had commenced the proceedings and the application were made in the proceedings.(f) it may make an order for the detention, custody or preservation of property under rule 25.3,(2) In relation to proceedings in the Supreme Court, an application under subrule (1) may be made in any division of the Court but must, so far as practicable, be made in the division to which the proceedings that are intended to be commenced would be assigned.(3) A person making an application under subrule (1) must give an undertaking to the court to the effect that the applicant will file originating process commencing the proceedings within such time as the court may order or, if the court makes no such order, within 48 hours after the application is granted.rule 25.2: Am 2006 (288), Sch 1 [9].
25.3 Preservation of property
(cf SCR Part 28, rule 2)
(1) In proceedings concerning property, or in which any question may arise as to property, the court may make orders for the detention, custody or preservation of the property.(2) An order under subrule (1) may authorise any person to enter any land or to do any other thing for the purpose of giving effect to the order.(3) In proceedings concerning the right of any party to a fund, the court may order that the fund be paid into court or otherwise secured.
25.4 Disposal of personal property
(cf SCR Part 28, rule 3)
If, in proceedings concerning property (other than land) or in which any question may arise as to any property (other than land), it appears to the court that:(a) the property is of a perishable nature or is likely to deteriorate, orthe court may make an order for the sale or other disposal of the whole or any part of the property by such person, and in such manner, as the court may direct.(b) for any other reason it is desirable that the property should be sold or otherwise disposed of,
25.5 Interim distribution
(cf SCR Part 28, rule 4)
If, in proceedings concerning property, it appears to the court that the property is more than sufficient to answer the claims on the property for which provision ought to be made in the proceedings, the court may allow any part of the property to be conveyed, transferred or delivered to any person having an interest in the property.
25.6 Interim income
(cf SCR Part 28, rule 5)
If, in proceedings concerning property, it appears to the court that the whole or any part of the income of the property is not required to answer the claims on the property or its income for which provision ought to be made in the proceedings, the court may allow that income or part to be paid, during such period as the court may determine, to all or any of the persons having an interest in the income.
25.7 Payment before ascertainment of all persons interested
(cf SCR Part 28, rule 6)
If two or more persons are entitled to share in a fund, the court may order or allow immediate payment to any of those persons of his or her share without reserving any part of that share to meet the subsequent costs of ascertaining any other of those persons.
25.8 Meaning of “usual undertaking as to damages”
(cf SCR Part 28, rule 7 (2))
The “usual undertaking as to damages”, if given to the court in connection with any interlocutory order or undertaking, is an undertaking to the court to submit to such order (if any) as the court may consider to be just for the payment of compensation (to be assessed by the court or as it may direct) to any person (whether or not a party) affected by the operation of the interlocutory order or undertaking or of any interlocutory continuation (with or without variation) of the interlocutory order or undertaking.
25.9 Orders may be made at any stage of proceedings
(cf SCR Part 28, rule 7 (1))
Orders may be made under this Part at any stage of proceedings.
Division 2 Freezing orders
Note—
The provisions of this Division comprise uniform rules developed under the auspices of the Australian Council of Chief Justices.
pt 25, div 2: Ins 2006 (288), Sch 1 [10].
In this Division:ancillary order has the meaning given by rule 25.12.another court includes a court outside New South Wales, whether inside or outside Australia.applicant means a person who applies for a freezing order or an ancillary order.freezing order has the meaning given by rule 25.11.respondent means a person against whom a freezing order or an ancillary order is sought or made.Note 1—The definition of judgment in the Federal Court Rules is not included above. The word is defined in section 3 of the Civil Procedure Act 2005 for the purposes of that Act and these rules.Note 2—In any notice of motion for a freezing order, a party should be referred to by the appropriate expression prescribed by rule 18.3.pt 25, div 3 (rules 25.10–25.24): Ins 2006 (288), Sch 1 [10].
(1) The court may make an order (a freezing order), upon or without notice to a respondent, for the purpose of preventing the frustration or inhibition of the court’s process by seeking to meet a danger that a judgment or prospective judgment of the court will be wholly or partly unsatisfied.(2) A freezing order may be an order restraining a respondent from removing any assets located in or outside Australia or from disposing of, dealing with, or diminishing the value of, those assets.pt 25, div 3 (rules 25.10–25.24): Ins 2006 (288), Sch 1 [10].
(1) The court may make an order (an ancillary order) ancillary to a freezing order or prospective freezing order as the court considers appropriate.(2) Without limiting the generality of subrule (1), an ancillary order may be made for either or both of the following purposes:(a) eliciting information relating to assets relevant to the freezing order or prospective freezing order,(b) determining whether the freezing order should be made.pt 25, div 3 (rules 25.10–25.24): Ins 2006 (288), Sch 1 [10].
The court may make a freezing order or an ancillary order against a respondent even if the respondent is not a party to a proceeding in which substantive relief is sought against the respondent.pt 25, div 3 (rules 25.10–25.24): Ins 2006 (288), Sch 1 [10].
25.14 Order against judgment debtor or prospective judgment debtor or third party
(cf Federal Court Rules Order 25A, rule 5)
(1) This rule applies if:(a) judgment has been given in favour of an applicant by:(i) the court, or(ii) in the case of a judgment to which subrule (2) applies—another court, or(b) an applicant has a good arguable case on an accrued or prospective cause of action that is justiciable in:(i) the court, or(ii) in the case of a cause of action to which subrule (3) applies—another court.(2) This subrule applies to a judgment if there is a sufficient prospect that the judgment will be registered in or enforced by the court.(3) This subrule applies to a cause of action if:(a) there is a sufficient prospect that the other court will give judgment in favour of the applicant, and(b) there is a sufficient prospect that the judgment will be registered in or enforced by the court.(4) The court may make a freezing order or an ancillary order or both against a judgment debtor or prospective judgment debtor if the court is satisfied, having regard to all the circumstances, that there is a danger that a judgment or prospective judgment will be wholly or partly unsatisfied because any of the following might occur:(a) the judgment debtor, prospective judgment debtor or another person absconds,(b) the assets of the judgment debtor, prospective judgment debtor or another person are:(i) removed from Australia or from a place inside or outside Australia, or(ii) disposed of, dealt with or diminished in value.(5) The court may make a freezing order or an ancillary order or both against a person other than a judgment debtor or prospective judgment debtor (a third party) if the court is satisfied, having regard to all the circumstances, that:(a) there is a danger that a judgment or prospective judgment will be wholly or partly unsatisfied because:(i) the third party holds or is using, or has exercised or is exercising, a power of disposition over assets (including claims and expectancies) of the judgment debtor or prospective judgment debtor, or(ii) the third party is in possession of, or in a position of control or influence concerning, assets (including claims and expectancies) of the judgment debtor or prospective judgment debtor, or(b) a process in the court is or may ultimately be available to the applicant as a result of a judgment or prospective judgment, under which process the third party may be obliged to disgorge assets or contribute toward satisfying the judgment or prospective judgment.(6) Nothing in this rule affects the power of the court to make a freezing order or ancillary order if the court considers it is in the interests of justice to do so.pt 25, div 3 (rules 25.10–25.24): Ins 2006 (288), Sch 1 [10].
Nothing in this Division diminishes the inherent, implied or statutory jurisdiction of the court to make a freezing order or ancillary order.pt 25, div 3 (rules 25.10–25.24): Ins 2006 (288), Sch 1 [10].
25.16 Service outside Australia of application for freezing order or ancillary order
(cf Federal Court Rules Order 25A, rule 7)
An application for a freezing order or an ancillary order may be served on a person who is outside Australia (whether or not the person is domiciled or resident in Australia) if any of the assets to which the order relates are within the jurisdiction of the court.pt 25, div 3 (rules 25.10–25.24): Ins 2006 (288), Sch 1 [10].
(1) The court may make any order as to costs as it considers appropriate in relation to an order made under this Division.(2) Without limiting the generality of subrule (1), an order as to costs includes an order as to the costs of any person affected by a freezing order or ancillary order.pt 25, div 3 (rules 25.10–25.24): Ins 2006 (288), Sch 1 [10].
Division 3 Search orders
Note—
The provisions of this Division comprise uniform rules developed under the auspices of the Australian Council of Chief Justices.
pt 25, div 3 (rules 25.10–25.24): Ins 2006 (288), Sch 1 [10].
In this Division:applicant means an applicant for a search order.described includes described generally whether by reference to a class or otherwise.premises includes a vehicle or vessel of any kind.respondent means a person against whom a search order is sought or made.search order has the meaning given by rule 25.19.Note—In any notice of motion for a search order, a party should be referred to by the appropriate expression prescribed by rule 18.3.pt 25, div 3 (rules 25.10–25.24): Ins 2006 (288), Sch 1 [10].
The court may make an order (a search order), in any proceeding or in anticipation of any proceeding in the court, with or without notice to the respondent, for the purpose of securing or preserving evidence and requiring a respondent to permit persons to enter premises for the purpose of securing the preservation of evidence which is or may be relevant to an issue in the proceeding or anticipated proceeding.pt 25, div 3 (rules 25.10–25.24): Ins 2006 (288), Sch 1 [10].
The court may make a search order if the court is satisfied that:(a) an applicant seeking the order has a strong prima facie case on an accrued cause of action, and(b) the potential or actual loss or damage to the applicant will be serious if the search order is not made, and(c) there is sufficient evidence in relation to a respondent that:(i) the respondent possesses important evidentiary material, and(ii) there is a real possibility that the respondent might destroy such material or cause it to be unavailable for use in evidence in a proceeding or anticipated proceeding before the court.pt 25, div 3 (rules 25.10–25.24): Ins 2006 (288), Sch 1 [10].
Nothing in this Division diminishes the inherent, implied or statutory jurisdiction of the court to make a search order.pt 25, div 3 (rules 25.10–25.24): Ins 2006 (288), Sch 1 [10].
(1) A search order may direct each person who is named or described in the order:(a) to permit, or arrange to permit, such other persons as are named or described in the order:(i) to enter premises specified in the order, and(ii) to take any steps that are in accordance with the terms of the order, and(b) to provide, or arrange to provide, such other persons named or described in the order with any information, thing or service described in the order, and(c) to allow such other persons named or described in the order to take and retain in their custody any thing described in the order, and(d) not to disclose any information about the order, for up to 3 days after the date on which the order was served, except for the purposes of obtaining legal advice or legal representation, and(e) to do or refrain from doing any act as the court considers appropriate.(2) Without limiting the generality of subrule (1) (a) (ii), the steps that may be taken in relation to a thing specified in a search order include:(a) searching for, inspecting or removing the thing, and(b) making or obtaining a record of the thing or any information it may contain.(3) A search order may contain such other provisions as the court considers appropriate.(4) In subrule (2):record includes a copy, photograph, film or sample.pt 25, div 3 (rules 25.10–25.24): Ins 2006 (288), Sch 1 [10].
(1) If the court makes a search order, the court must appoint one or more solicitors, each of whom is independent of the applicant’s solicitors (the independent solicitors), to supervise the execution of the order, and to do such other things in relation to the order as the court considers appropriate.(2) The court may appoint an independent solicitor to supervise execution of the order at any one or more premises, and a different independent solicitor or solicitors to supervise execution of the order at other premises, with each independent solicitor having power to do such other things in relation to the order as the court considers appropriate.pt 25, div 3 (rules 25.10–25.24): Ins 2006 (288), Sch 1 [10].
(1) The court may make any order as to costs that it considers appropriate in relation to an order made under this Division.(2) Without limiting the generality of subrule (1), an order as to costs includes an order as to the costs of any person affected by a search order.pt 25, div 3 (rules 25.10–25.24): Ins 2006 (288), Sch 1 [10].
Part 26 Receivers
26.1 Application
This Part applies to proceedings in the Supreme Court.
26.2 Address for service
(cf SCR Part 29, rule 1)
A receiver must, within 7 days after appointment as such, file a notice specifying an address for service.
26.3 Security
(cf SCR Part 29, rule 2)
(1) If the court appoints a receiver, the court may give directions for the filing by the receiver of security in accordance with this rule.(2) If the court directs the appointment of a receiver, then, unless the court orders otherwise, a person must not be appointed receiver under the direction until security has been filed in accordance with this rule.(3) Subrules (1) and (2) have effect subject to any provision for the time being in force made by or under any Act.(4) A security to be filed in accordance with this rule must be a security approved by the court that the receiver will account for what he or she receives as receiver and will deal with what he or she receives as the court may direct.(5) If a security has been filed under this rule, the court may make orders for the vacation of the security.
26.4 Remuneration
(cf SCR Part 29, rule 3)
A receiver is to be allowed such remuneration (if any) as may be fixed by the court.
26.5 Accounts
(cf SCR Part 29, rule 4)
(1) A receiver must file accounts at such intervals or on such dates as the court may direct.(2) On the day on which he or she files an account, a receiver must file a notice of motion applying for an order to pass the account.(3) Unless the court orders otherwise, the receiver must attend on the hearing of the application under subrule (2).
26.6 Default
(cf SCR Part 29, rule 5)
(1) If a receiver fails to comply with a requirement of these rules, or of an order or direction of the court:(a) to file an account or affidavit, or(b) to attend on the hearing of an application for an order to pass an account, orthe court may make such orders and give such directions as the court thinks fit.(c) to do any other thing,(2) Without limiting subrule (1), the orders and directions that may be made or given include orders and directions:(a) for the discharge of the receiver, and(b) for the appointment of another receiver, and(c) for the payment of costs.(3) Without limiting subrule (1), if a receiver fails to comply with a requirement of these rules, or of an order or direction of the court, to pay into court any sum shown by an account as due from the receiver, the court may charge the receiver with interest on that sum, at the relevant rate set out in Schedule 5, while that sum is in his or her possession as receiver.(4) This rule does not limit the powers of the court as to the enforcement of orders or as to the punishment of contempt.
26.7 Powers
(cf SCR Part 29, rule 6)
(1) The court may authorise a receiver to do (either in the name of the receiver or in the name of the parties or any of them, and either generally or in any particular case) any act or thing that the parties or any of them might do if of full age and capacity.(2) Subrule (1) has effect even if the parties or any of them are not of full age and capacity.(3) This rule does not limit any power of the court apart from this rule to authorise a receiver to do any act or thing.
26.8 Account on death
(cf SCR Part 29, rule 7)
(1) If a receiver in any proceedings dies, the court may make such orders as the court thinks fit for the filing and passing of accounts by the representatives of the deceased receiver and for the payment into court of any amount shown to be due.(2) The court must not make any order under subrule (1) unless notice of motion has been served on the representatives.(3) A notice of motion under this rule must be served personally.
Part 27 Disposal of land
27.1 Power to order sale
(cf SCR Part 30, rule 2)
In proceedings in the Supreme Court in relation to land, other than proceedings in the Common Law Division for possession of land, the Court may, at any stage of the proceedings:(a) order that the whole or any part of the land be sold, and(b) order that any party in receipt of the rents or profits of the land, or otherwise in possession of the land, deliver possession to such person as the Court may direct.
27.2 Manner of sale
(cf SCR Part 30, rule 3)
(1) This rule applies if the Supreme Court makes an order under rule 27.1 that land be sold.(2) The Supreme Court may appoint a party or other person to have the conduct of the sale.(3) The Supreme Court may permit the person having the conduct of the sale to sell the land in such manner as he or she thinks fit.(4) The Supreme Court may direct any party to join in the sale and conveyance or transfer or in any other matter relating to the sale.(5) The Supreme Court may give such further directions as it thinks fit for the purpose of effecting the sale, including any one or more of the following:(a) a direction fixing the manner of sale (that is, whether sale is to be by contract conditional on approval of the Court, by private treaty, by public auction, by tender, or by some other manner),(b) a direction fixing a reserve or minimum price,(c) a direction requiring payment of the purchase money into Court or to trustees or other persons,(d) a direction for settling the particulars and conditions of sale,(e) a direction for obtaining evidence of value,(f) a direction fixing the remuneration to be allowed to any auctioneer, real estate agent or other person.
27.3 Certificate of sale
(cf SCR Part 30, rule 4)
(1) If, pursuant to this Part, land is sold by public auction, the auctioneer must, unless the Supreme Court orders otherwise, certify the result of the sale.(2) If, pursuant to this Part, land is sold otherwise than by public auction, the solicitor of the person having the conduct of the sale must, unless the Supreme Court orders otherwise, certify the result of the sale.(3) The Supreme Court may require that the certificate be verified by affidavit of the person certifying.(4) The person having the conduct of the sale must file the certificate and affidavit, if any.
27.4 Mortgage, exchange or partition
(cf SCR Part 30, rule 5)
If the Supreme Court makes an order for the mortgage, exchange or partition of land, rules 27.2 and 27.3 apply to the mortgage, exchange or partition, so far as applicable and with any necessary modifications, in the same way as they apply to a sale of land under this Part.
Part 28 Separate decision of questions and consolidation
Division 1 Preliminary
28.1 Definition
(cf SCR Part 31, rule 1)
In this Part, question includes any question or issue in any proceedings, whether of fact or law or partly of fact and partly of law, and whether raised by pleadings, agreement of parties or otherwise.
Division 2 Separation of questions
28.2 Order for decision
(cf SCR Part 31, rule 2)
The court may make orders for the decision of any question separately from any other question, whether before, at or after any trial or further trial in the proceedings.
28.3 Record of decision
(cf SCR Part 31, rule 5)
If any question is decided under this Part, the court must, subject to rule 28.4, either:(a) cause the decision to be recorded, or(b) give or make such judgment or order as the nature of the case requires.
28.4 Disposal of proceedings
(cf SCR Part 31, rule 6)
(1) This rule applies if the decision of a question under this Division:(a) substantially disposes of the proceedings or of the whole or any part of any claim for relief in the proceedings, or(b) renders unnecessary any trial or further trial in the proceedings or on the whole or any part of any claim for relief in the proceedings.(2) In the circumstances referred to in subrule (1), the court may, as the nature of the case requires:(a) dismiss the proceedings or the whole or any part of any claim for relief in the proceedings, or(b) give any judgment, or(c) make any other order.
Division 3 Consolidation etc of proceedings
28.5 Consolidation etc of proceedings
(cf SCR Part 31, rule 7; DCR Part 12, rule 7)
If several proceedings are pending in the court and it appears to the court:(a) that they involve a common question, or(b) that the rights to relief claimed in them are in respect of, or arise out of, the same transaction or series of transactions, orthe court may order those proceedings to be consolidated, or to be tried at the same time or one immediately after another, or may order any of them to be stayed until after the determination of any other of them.(c) that for some other reason it is desirable to make an order under this rule,Note—See also Division 5 of Part 6 with respect to joinder of causes of action and joinder of parties.
Part 29 Trials
29.1 Beginning and opposite parties
(cf SCR Part 34, rule 1; DCR Part 26, rule 1A; LCR Part 21, rule 1A)
Subject to any directions given by the court, for the purposes of this Part:(a) if the burden of proof on any issue lies on the plaintiff, the plaintiff is to be the beginning party and the defendant the opposite party, and(b) if the burden of proof on all the issues lies on the defendant, the defendant is to be the beginning party and the plaintiff the opposite party.
29.2 Applications, elections and requisitions for jury
(cf SCR Part 34, rule 3; DCR Part 12, rule 5)
(1) Applications generally Except as provided by subrule (3), an application for proceedings to be tried by jury must be made by notice of motion.(2) Filing of requisitions for juries For the purposes of section 85 of the Supreme Court Act 1970 and section 76A of the District Court Act 1973, a requisition for a jury must be filed at the same time as the notice of motion referred to in subrule (1) is filed.(3) Elections under section 21 of Defamation Act 2005 A party who intends to make an election under section 21 of the Defamation Act 2005 to have proceedings for defamation tried by jury (an election for trial by jury) must file a notice of intention to do so.(4) Unless the court otherwise orders, an election for trial by jury must be made, by means of an announcement in open court before a judicial officer, at the first hearing that takes place more than 3 days after service on the active parties of the notice of intention to make the election.(4A) A party who makes an election for trial by jury must, at the hearing referred to in subrule (4), produce to the court a copy of the notice of intention filed under subrule (3).(5) At a hearing referred to in subrule (4), any party may, without notice of motion having been filed or served, apply to the court for an order under section 21 (3) of the Defamation Act 2005 that the trial not be by jury and, if such an application is made, the court may determine the application on the day it is made or on any later day fixed by the court.(6) Time for filing notice of motion or intention Unless the court otherwise orders, a notice of motion under subrule (1) or notice of intention under subrule (3) must be filed:(a) if the notice is filed by the plaintiff:(i) within 56 days after service on the defendant of the statement of claim, or(ii) if a defence is served on the plaintiff within that period, within 28 days after service of the defence on the plaintiff, or(b) if the notice is filed by the defendant:(i) within 28 days after service on the defendant of the statement of claim, or(ii) if, pursuant to rule 14.3, the court directs some other date for the filing of a defence, within 28 days after the date fixed by the court’s direction.rule 29.2: Subst 2005 (807), Sch 1 [5]. Am 2009 (166), Sch 1 [7].
29.3 Time and place of trial
(cf SCR Part 34, rule 4)
The court may make such order as it thinks fit for fixing the time and place of trial.
29.4 Trial to deal with all questions and issues
(cf SCR Part 33, rule 4)
Unless the court orders otherwise, proceedings are to be listed for trial generally, that is, for hearing of all questions and issues arising on every claim for relief in the proceedings.
29.5 Conduct of trials generally
(cf SCR Part 34, rule 6 (1))
The court may give directions as to the order of evidence and addresses and generally as to the conduct of the trial.
29.6 Order of evidence and addresses
(cf SCR Part 34, rule 6; DCR Part 26, rule 6; LCR Part 21, rule 4)
(1) Subject to these rules and to any direction of the court:(a) if the only parties are one plaintiff and one defendant, and there is no statement of cross-claim or cross-summons, the order of evidence and addresses is to be as provided by this rule, and(b) in any other case, the order of evidence and addresses is to be as provided by this rule, subject to any modifications that the nature of the case requires.(2) The beginning party may make an address opening his or her case and may then adduce evidence.(3) If, at the conclusion of the beginning party’s evidence, no document or thing has been admitted in evidence on tender by the opposite party, the opposite party may elect to adduce evidence or not to adduce evidence.(4) If the opposite party elects to adduce evidence:(a) the opposite party may make an opening address before adducing evidence, and(b) after adducing evidence, the opposite party may make an address closing his or her case, and(c) after the close of the opposite party’s case, the beginning party may make an address closing his or her case.(5) If the opposite party elects not to adduce evidence:(a) the beginning party may make an address closing his or her case, and(b) after the close of the beginning party’s case, the opposite party may make an address stating his or her case.
29.7 Procedure to be followed if party is absent
(cf SCR Part 5, rule 9, Part 13, rule 5A, Part 34, rule 5; DCR Part 26, rule 5A; LCR Part 21, rule 2)
(1) This rule applies when a trial is called on.(2) If any party is absent, the court:(a) may proceed with the trial generally or so far as concerns any claim for relief in the proceedings, or(b) may adjourn the trial.(3) If, in relation to a liquidated claim, the plaintiff appears, but a defendant does not appear, the court may, without proceeding to trial, give judgment against that defendant on evidence of:(a) the amount then due to the plaintiff in respect of the cause of action for which the proceedings were commenced, and(b) any payments made or credits accrued since the commencement of the proceedings in reduction of the amount of the plaintiff’s claim or costs.(4) If, in relation to any proceedings, the defendant appears, but the plaintiff does not appear, the court may dismiss the proceedings.(5) Subrules (3) and (4) do not limit the court’s powers under subrule (2).rule 29.7: Subst 2005 (717), Sch 1 [7].
29.8 Dismissal of proceedings on plaintiff’s application
(cf SCR Part 34, rule 6A; DCR Part 26, rule 6A; LCR Part 21, rule 5 (1))
(1) On the application of the plaintiff in any proceedings, the court may make an order for the dismissal of the proceedings to the extent to which they concern:(a) the whole or any part of the plaintiff’s claim for relief, and(b) any cause of action relevant to that claim or part of the claim.(2) Subject to subrule (3), such an order may be made at any time.(3) In the case of a trial with a jury, such an order may be made only if the application for the order is made before the jury gives a verdict.
29.9 Dismissal of proceedings on defendant’s application
(cf SCR Part 34, rule 7; DCR Part 26, rule 7; LCR Part 21, rule 5 (2)–(7))
(1) A defendant in proceedings in which the plaintiff is the beginning party may apply to the court for an order:(a) for the dismissal of the proceedings, oron the ground that, on the evidence given, a judgment for the plaintiff could not be supported.(b) for the dismissal of the proceedings to the extent to which they concern any cause of action relevant to the plaintiff’s claim for relief against that defendant,(2) Such an application may be made at any time after the conclusion of the evidence for the plaintiff in his or her case in chief.(3) The plaintiff may argue, or decline to argue, the question raised by the application.(4) The court may not make an order under this rule unless the plaintiff argues the question raised by the application and the defendant satisfies the court that, on the evidence given, a judgment for the plaintiff could not be supported.(5) If the plaintiff declines to argue the question raised by the application, or if the defendant fails to satisfy the court that, on the evidence given, a judgment for the plaintiff could not be supported, the defendant:(a) may adduce evidence or further evidence, or(b) may make an application under rule 29.10.(6) If fewer than all defendants apply to the court under subrule (1), the court must not deal with any such application before the conclusion of the evidence given for all parties.
29.10 Judgment for want of evidence
(cf SCR Part 34, rule 8; DCR Part 26, rule 8; LCR Part 21, rule 6)
(1) An opposite party may apply to the court to give judgment for the opposite party, either generally or on any claim for relief in the proceedings, on the ground that, on the evidence given, a judgment for the beginning party could not be supported.(2) Such an application may be made at any time after the conclusion of the evidence for the beginning party in his or her case in chief.(3) The court may not give judgment under this rule unless the opposite party satisfies the court that, on the evidence given, a judgment for the beginning party could not be supported.(4) If the opposite party fails to satisfy the court that, on the evidence given, a judgment for the beginning party could not be supported, the opposite party may not adduce evidence or further evidence in the proceedings generally or on the claim for relief concerned, as the case may be, except by leave of the court.(5) If not all opposite parties apply to the court under subrule (1), the court must not deal with any such application before the conclusion of the evidence given for all parties.
29.11 Judgment despite verdict, finding or assessment
(cf SCR Part 34, rule 8A)
If, at a trial with a jury, a verdict is given or a finding or assessment is made, the court may give judgment as it thinks fit despite the verdict, finding or assessment.
29.12 Death of party before judgment
(cf SCR Part 34, rule 10)
(1) If a party dies after the verdict or finding on the questions of fact, the court may give judgment, and judgment may be entered, despite the death.(2) Subrule (1) does not limit the court’s power to make orders for the joinder, removal or re-arrangement of parties under Part 6.
29.13 Record of trial to be kept
(cf SCR Part 34, rule 9; DCR Part 26, rule 8A)
The associate, or other officer of the court present at the trial, is to maintain and complete a record of the trial.
29.14 Court may refuse to hear proceedings if fees unpaid
(cf Supreme Court Regulation 2000, clause 12; District Court Regulation 2000, clause 9A)
The court may refuse to hear, or to continue to hear, proceedings in respect of which a hearing allocation fee or hearing fee remains due and unpaid.rule 29.14: Am 2005 (395), Sch 1 [31].
29.15 Statement in open court about settled defamation proceedings
(cf SCR Part 67, rule 21; DCR Part 49, rule 19)
With the leave of the court, a party to proceedings for defamation that have been settled may make in open court such statement about the proceedings as has been approved by the court in private.rules 29.15, 29.16: Ins 2005 (807), Sch 1 [6].
29.16 Offers to make amends for defamatory publications: determination of questions
(cf SCR Part 67, rule 22; DCR Part 49, rule 20)
The court may hear an application and determine any question under section 9F (2) of the Defamation Act 1974 or section 15 (3) of the Defamation Act 2005 in the absence of the public.rules 29.15, 29.16: Ins 2005 (807), Sch 1 [6].
Part 30 Assessment of damages and value of goods
30.1 Damages under judgment
(cf SCR Part 35, rule 1; DCR Part 11A, rule 2 (2); LCR Part 10A, rule 2 (2))
(1) This rule applies to proceedings in which judgment against a party has been given for damages to be assessed.(2) Subject to subrule (3), the proceedings are to proceed to trial for assessment of damages.(3) If the proceedings are carried on against the party on any claim for relief not determined by the judgment, or against any other party, the trial for assessment of damages is to be held together with any other trial in the proceedings.
30.2 Value of goods under judgment
(cf SCR Part 35, rule 2)
Rule 30.1 applies to proceedings in which judgment is given for the value of goods to be assessed (with or without damages to be assessed) in the same way as it applies to a judgment for damages to be assessed.
30.3 Damages to time of assessment
(cf SCR Part 35, rule 3; DCR Part 27, rule 2, LCR Part 22, rule 2)
(1) If damages are to be assessed in respect of:(a) a continuing cause of action, or(b) repeated breaches of recurring obligations, orthe damages are to be assessed up to the time of assessment, including damages for breaches occurring after the commencement of the proceedings.(c) intermittent breaches of a continuing obligation,(2) Subrule (1) applies to the assessment of damages under this Part or otherwise.
Part 31 Evidence
Division 1 Evidence at hearing
31.1 Manner of giving evidence at trial
(cf SCR Part 36, rule 2; DCR Part 28, rule 2; LCR Part 25, rule 9)
(1) This rule applies to a trial of proceedings commenced by statement of claim, or in which a statement of claim has been filed.(2) Subject to subrules (3), (4) and (5) and to the provisions of the Evidence Act 1995, a witness’s evidence at a trial must be given orally before the court.(3) The court may order that all or any of a witness’s evidence at a trial must be given by affidavit or, subject to rule 31.4, by witness statement.(4) Unless the court orders otherwise, evidence of facts must be given by affidavit if the only matters in question are:(a) interest up to judgment in respect of a debt or liquidated claim, or(b) the assessment of damages or the value of goods under Part 30, or(c) costs.(5) Unless the court otherwise orders, at any trial on an assessment of the amount to be recovered by a plaintiff after default judgment has been given, the following evidence may be given by affidavit:(a) evidence of the identity of any motor vehicle,(b) evidence of the damage sustained by a motor vehicle in a particular collision,(c) evidence of the reasonable cost of repairing that damage.rule 31.1: Am 2005 (395), Sch 1 [32] [33].
31.2 Evidence of witnesses at other hearings
(cf SCR Part 36, rule 3; DCR Part 28, rule 3)
Subject to rule 31.1, evidence in chief of any witness at any hearing must be given by affidavit unless the court orders otherwise.rule 31.2: Am 2005 (717), Sch 1 [8].
31.3 Evidence by telephone, video link or other communication
(cf SCR Part 36, rule 2A; DCR Part 28, rule 2A; LCR Part 23, rule 1C)
(1) If the court so orders, evidence and submissions may be received by telephone, video link or other form of communication.(2) This rule does not apply to circumstances in which directions could be sought under section 25 of the Evidence and Procedure (New Zealand) Act 1994 of the Commonwealth.
31.4 Court may direct party to furnish witness statement
(cf SCR Part 36, rule 4A)
(1) The court may direct any party to serve on each other active party a written statement of the oral evidence that the party intends to adduce in chief on any questions of fact to be decided at any hearing (a witness statement).(2) A direction under subrule (1):(a) may make different provision with regard to different questions of fact or different witnesses, and(b) may require that notice be given of any objection to any of the evidence in a witness statement and of the grounds of any such objection.(3) Each witness statement must be signed by the intended witness unless the signature of the witness cannot be procured or the court orders otherwise.(4) If an intended witness to whose evidence a witness statement relates does not give evidence, no party may put the statement in evidence at the hearing except by leave of the court.(5) If the party serving the statement calls as a witness at the hearing any person whose witness statement has been served pursuant to a direction under subrule (1):(a) that person’s witness statement is to stand as the whole of his or her evidence in chief, so long as that person testifies to the truth of the statement, and(b) except by leave of the court, the party may not adduce from that person any further evidence in chief.(6) A party who fails to comply with a direction given under this rule may not adduce evidence to which the direction relates, except by leave of the court.(7) This rule does not deprive any party of the right to treat any communication as privileged and does not make admissible any evidence that is otherwise inadmissible.(8) An application by a party for an order that the party not be required to comply with a direction under this rule in respect of any proposed witness or witnesses (whether or not such a direction has been given) may be made without serving notice of motion.
31.5 Notice under s 67 or s 99 of the Evidence Act 1995
(cf SCR Part 36, rule 13D; DCR Part 28, rule 9A; LCR Part 23, rule 3A)
Unless the court orders otherwise, notice for the purposes of section 67 or 99 of the Evidence Act 1995 must be given:(a) in any case where the court by notice to the parties fixes a date for determining the date for hearing, not later than 21 days before the date fixed by that notice, and(b) in any other case where the place of hearing is a place other than Sydney, not later than 21 days before the first call-over held in respect of the sittings at that place, and(c) in any other case, not later than 21 days before the date on which the court determines the date for hearing.
31.6 Evidence on commission
(cf SCR Part 36, rule 6; DCR Part 28, rule 7)
(1) The court may permit a party to any proceedings the subject of an order under rule 24.3 (relating to the taking of evidence otherwise than at trial) to tender in the proceedings the evidence of a person examined under the order.(2) The evidence is not admissible in the proceedings if:(a) it appears to the satisfaction of the court that the person examined is in New South Wales and is able to attend the hearing, or(b) the evidence would not have been admissible had it been given orally at the hearing of the proceedings.(3) If it is in the interests of justice to do so, the court may exclude from the proceedings any evidence of the person examined even though the evidence is otherwise admissible.(4) Unless the court orders otherwise, evidence in any proceedings that a case falls within:(a) subrule (2) (a), or(b) section 8 (2) (a) or 22 (2) (a) of the Evidence on Commission Act 1995, ormay be given by affidavit on information and belief, but the person making the affidavit must give the source of and ground for the information and belief.(c) section 9 (2) (a) of the Foreign Evidence Act 1994 of the Commonwealth,(5) The judicial officer presiding at the trial may make any necessary observations and findings as to demeanour and credibility of the person examined, and act on them for the determination of the issues at the trial, if:(a) the examination has been conducted by the same judicial officer, orexcept where the trial is before a jury.(b) an audio-visual recording under rule 24.13 is tendered in evidence at the trial,(6) In this rule, evidence includes:(a) any document or thing produced at the examination, and(b) any answers made (whether in writing, or orally and reduced to writing) to any written interrogatories presented at the examination, and(c) any audio-visual recording made in accordance with rule 24.13.
31.7 Foreign material
(cf SCR Part 36, rule 6B)
(1) Unless the court orders otherwise, a party who adduces foreign material under section 24 or 32 of the Foreign Evidence Act 1994 of the Commonwealth as evidence:(a) must give at least 14 days’ written notice to each other active party of:(i) the intention to adduce evidence under that section, and(ii) the nature of the foreign material, and(b) must adduce all relevant evidence available to that party:(i) as to whether the person who gave the testimony that is the subject of the foreign material is in Australia and is able to attend the hearing, and(ii) if the foreign material is adduced under section 24 of the Foreign Evidence Act 1994 of the Commonwealth, of the matters to which section 25 (2) (a) or (c) of that Act refer, and(iii) if the foreign material is adduced under section 32 of the Foreign Evidence Act 1994 of the Commonwealth, of the matters to which section 33 (2) (a) or (c) of that Act refer.(2) In this rule foreign material has the same meaning as it has in the Foreign Evidence Act 1994 of the Commonwealth.
31.8 Earlier evidence in the same proceedings
(cf SCR Part 36, rule 5; DCR Part 28, rule 6)
(1) Evidence taken at a trial with respect to a question that is ordered to be tried separately may be used in any subsequent trial in the same proceedings, saving all just exceptions and unless the court orders otherwise.(2) Evidence taken at a trial may be used for any subsequent trial for the assessment of damages or of the value of goods in the same proceedings, saving all just exceptions and unless the court orders otherwise.(3) Subject to subrules (1) and (2), evidence taken at a hearing may not be used as evidence in any subsequent hearing in the same proceedings except by leave of the court.
31.9 Earlier evidence in other proceedings
(cf SCR Part 36, rule 7; DCR Part 28, rule 10)
(1) In any proceedings, evidence taken, or an affidavit filed, in other proceedings may not be used as evidence, saving all just exceptions and unless the court orders otherwise.(2) Leave may not be granted under subrule (1) except to allow the evidence taken, or affidavit filed, in the other proceedings to be used in relation to the proof of particular facts.
31.10 Plans, photographs and models
(cf SCR Part 14, rule 2, Part 36, rule 8; DCR Part 28, rule 11; LCR Part 23, rule 4)
(1) At least 7 days before the commencement of a hearing, a party who intends to tender any plan, photograph or model at the hearing must give the other parties an opportunity to inspect it and to agree to its admission without proof.(2) A party who fails to comply with subrule (1) may not tender the plan, photograph or model in evidence except by leave of the court.(3) This rule does not apply to any proceedings entered, or intended to be entered, in:(a) the Commercial List or the Technology and Construction List in the Supreme Court, or(b) the Commercial List or the Construction List in the District Court.rule 31.10: Am 2006 (391), Sch 1 [6] [7].
31.11 Production of court documents
(cf SCR Part 36, rule 10; DCR Part 28, rule 13; LCR Part 23, rule 6)
Unless the court orders otherwise, the registrar must produce to the court any document in the registrar’s custody that, by notice in writing, any party to proceedings requests the registrar to produce to the court for the purposes of the proceedings.
31.12 Proof of court documents
(cf SCR Part 36, rule 9; DCR Part 28, rule 12; LCR Part 23, rule 5)
A document purporting to be marked with the seal of any court or tribunal is admissible in evidence without further proof.
31.13 Unstamped documents: arrangements under section 304 of the Duties Act 1997
(cf SCR Part 36, rule 10B)
(1) The “usual undertaking by person liable” if given to the court by a party in relation to an instrument referred to in section 304 (2) of the Duties Act 1997 is an undertaking that the party will, within a time specified by the court, transmit the instrument to the Chief Commissioner of State Revenue.(2) The “usual undertaking by person not liable” if given to the court by a party in relation to an instrument referred to in section 304 (2) of the Duties Act 1997 is an undertaking that the party will, within a time specified by the court, forward to the Chief Commissioner of State Revenue the name and address of the person liable to pay duty on the instrument under that Act together with the instrument.
31.14 Unstamped documents: undertaking in respect of section 29 of the Stamp Duties Act 1920
(cf SCR Part 36, rule 10A; DCR Part 28, rule 13A)
(1) The “solicitor’s usual undertaking as to stamp duty”, if given to the court by a solicitor in relation to an instrument referred to in section 29 of the Stamp Duties Act 1920, or an unexecuted copy referred to in that section, is an undertaking that the solicitor will cause the instrument or copy to be presented to the Chief Commissioner of State Revenue for assessment in accordance with that Act and cause any duty and fine to which the instrument or copy is liable to be paid.(2) The “party’s usual undertaking as to stamp duty”, if given to the court by a party in relation to an instrument referred to in section 29 (4) of the Stamp Duties Act 1920, is an undertaking that the party will, within 28 days, inform the Chief Commissioner of State Revenue of the name of the person primarily liable to duty in respect of the instrument and lodge the instrument or a copy of the instrument with the Chief Commissioner.
31.15 Evidence of consent to act as tutor, trustee, receiver or other office
(cf SCR Part 36, rule 11)
(1) A document:(a) purporting to contain a person’s written consent to act as tutor of a person under legal incapacity, to act as trustee, to act as receiver or to act in any other office on appointment by the court, andis evidence of the consent.(b) purporting to have been duly executed and authenticated,(2) A document is duly executed and authenticated for the purposes of subrule (1):(a) in the case of a consenting person who is a natural person, if the document is signed by the consenting person and the signature is verified by some other person, or(b) in the case of a consenting person that is a corporation, if the seal of the corporation is affixed to the document in accordance with the law regulating the use of the seal.
31.16 Evidence of published research concerning maintenance of children
(cf SCR Part 36, rule 13E)
If the proper needs of a minor are relevant, the court may have regard, to the extent to which it considers appropriate, to any relevant findings of published research in relation to the maintenance of minors.
31.16A Return of exhibits
(cf SCR Part 75, rule 3I)
Where proceedings have been concluded and:(a) 4 months have expired since the conclusion, andthe registrar may, unless the court otherwise orders, return any exhibit in the proceedings still in the custody of the registrar by forwarding it to the party from whom it was received.(b) there is no undisposed of appeal, or application for leave to appeal, in respect of the proceedings,rule 31.16A: Ins 2008 (494), Sch 1 [8].
Division 2 Provisions applicable to expert evidence generally
Note—
The provisions of this Division replace those of former Divisions 2 and 3, as in force immediately before 8 December 2006. The numbering of the individual provisions of this Division varies considerably from that of the provisions of the former Divisions. The following Table identifies the new rules corresponding to former rules 31.17–31.35.
Table
Former rule | New rule |
Rule 31.17 | Rule 31.18 |
Rule 31.18 | Rule 31.28 |
Rule 31.18A | Rule 31.29 |
Rule 31.19 | Rule 31.30 |
Rule 31.20 | Rule 31.31 |
Rule 31.21 | Rule 31.32 |
Rule 31.22 | Rule 31.33 |
Rule 31.23 | Rule 31.27 |
Rule 31.24 | Rule 31.34 |
Rule 31.25 | Rules 31.24 and 31.26 |
Rule 31.26 | Rule 31.35 |
Rule 31.27 | Rule 31.36 |
Rule 31.28 | Rule 31.18 |
Rule 31.29 | Rule 31.46 |
Rule 31.30 | Rule 31.23 |
Rule 31.31 | Rule 31.49 |
Rule 31.32 | Rule 31.51 |
Rule 31.33 | Rule 31.52 |
Rule 31.34 | Rule 31.53 |
Rule 31.35 | Rule 31.54 |
pt 31, div 2: Subst 2006 (717), Sch 1 [1].
Subdivision 1 Preliminary
pt 31, div 2, sdiv 1, hdg: Ins 2006 (717), Sch 1 [1].
31.17 Main purposes of Division
(cf Queensland Uniform Civil Procedure Rules 1999, rule 423; United Kingdom Civil Procedure Rules 1998, rule 35.1)
The main purposes of this Division are as follows:(a) to ensure that the court has control over the giving of expert evidence,(b) to restrict expert evidence in proceedings to that which is reasonably required to resolve the proceedings,(c) to avoid unnecessary costs associated with parties to proceedings retaining different experts,(d) if it is practicable to do so without compromising the interests of justice, to enable expert evidence to be given on an issue in proceedings by a single expert engaged by the parties or appointed by the court,(e) if it is necessary to do so to ensure a fair trial of proceedings, to allow for more than one expert (but no more than are necessary) to give evidence on an issue in the proceedings,(f) to declare the duty of an expert witness in relation to the court and the parties to proceedings.rules 31.17, 31.18: Subst 2006 (717), Sch 1 [1].
31.18 Definitions
(cf SCR Part 36, rules 13A and 13C; DCR Part 28, rule 8; LCR Part 23, rule 1D)
In this Division:court-appointed expert means an expert appointed pursuant to rule 31.46.expert, in relation to any issue, means a person who has such knowledge or experience of, or in connection with, that issue, or issues of the character of that issue, that his or her opinion on that issue would be admissible in evidence.expert witness means an expert engaged or appointed for the purpose of:(a) providing an expert’s report for use as evidence in proceedings or proposed proceedings, or(b) giving opinion evidence in proceedings or proposed proceedings.expert’s report means a written statement by an expert (whether or not an expert witness in the proceedings concerned) that sets out the expert’s opinion and the facts, and assumptions of fact, on which the opinion is based.hospital report means a written statement concerning a patient, made by or on behalf of a hospital, that the party serving the statement intends to adduce in evidence in chief at the trial.parties’ single expert means an expert engaged pursuant to rule 31.37.rules 31.17, 31.18: Subst 2006 (717), Sch 1 [1].rule 31.18A: Ins 2005 (395), Sch 1 [34]. Rep 2006 (717), Sch 1 [1].
Subdivision 2 Expert witnesses generally
pt 31, div 2, sdiv 2, hdg: Ins 2006 (717), Sch 1 [1].
31.19 Parties to seek directions before calling expert witnesses
(1) Any party:(a) intending to adduce expert evidence at trial, ormust promptly seek directions from the court in that regard.(b) to whom it becomes apparent that he or she, or any other party, may adduce expert evidence at trial,(2) Directions under this rule may be sought at any directions hearing or case management conference or, if no such hearing or conference has been fixed or is imminent, by notice of motion or pursuant to liberty to restore.(3) Unless the court otherwise orders, expert evidence may not be adduced at trial:(a) unless directions have been sought in accordance with this rule, and(b) if any such directions have been given by the court, otherwise than in accordance with those directions.(4) This rule does not apply to proceedings with respect to a professional negligence claim.rule 31.19: Am 2005 (395), Sch 1 [35]–[37]. Subst 2006 (717), Sch 1 [1]. Am 2007 (327), Sch 1 [5].
31.20 Court may give directions regarding expert witnesses
(1) Without limiting its other powers to give directions, the court may at any time give such directions as it considers appropriate in relation to the use of expert evidence in proceedings.(2) Directions under this rule may include any of the following:(a) a direction as to the time for service of experts’ reports,(b) a direction that expert evidence may not be adduced on a specified issue,(c) a direction that expert evidence may not be adduced on a specified issue except by leave of the court,(d) a direction that expert evidence may be adduced on specified issues only,(e) a direction limiting the number of expert witnesses who may be called to give evidence on a specified issue,(f) a direction providing for the engagement and instruction of a parties’ single expert in relation to a specified issue,(g) a direction providing for the appointment and instruction of a court-appointed expert in relation to a specified issue,(h) a direction requiring experts in relation to the same issue to confer, either before or after preparing experts’ reports in relation to a specified issue,(i) any other direction that may assist an expert in the exercise of the expert’s functions,(j) a direction that an expert who has prepared more than one expert’s report in relation to any proceedings is to prepare a single report that reflects his or her evidence in chief.rules 31.20–31.26: Subst 2006 (717), Sch 1 [1].
31.21 Expert evidence in chief to be given by way of experts’ reports
Unless the court otherwise orders, an expert witness’s evidence in chief must be given by the tender of one or more expert’s reports.rules 31.20–31.26: Subst 2006 (717), Sch 1 [1].
31.22 Expert witness to provide details of contingency fees or deferred payment schemes
(1) A person who is engaged as an expert witness in relation to any proceedings must include information as to any arrangements under which:(a) the charging of fees or costs by the expert witness is contingent on the outcome of the proceedings, orin, or in an annexure to, any report that he or she prepares for the purposes of the proceedings.(b) the payment of any fees or costs to the expert witness is to be deferred,(2) If a report referred to in subrule (1) indicates the existence of any such arrangements, the court may direct disclosure of the terms of the engagement (including as to fees and costs).rules 31.20–31.26: Subst 2006 (717), Sch 1 [1].
31.23 Code of conduct
(cf SCR Part 39, rule 2; DCR Part 28A, rule 2; LCR Part 38B, rule 2)
(1) An expert witness must comply with the code of conduct set out in Schedule 7.(2) As soon as practicable after an expert witness is engaged or appointed:(a) in the case of an expert witness engaged by one or more parties, the engaging parties, or one of them as they may agree, ormust provide the expert witness with a copy of the code of conduct.(b) in the case of an expert witness appointed by the court, such of the affected parties as the court may direct,(3) Unless the court otherwise orders, an expert’s report may not be admitted in evidence unless the report contains an acknowledgment by the expert witness by whom it was prepared that he or she has read the code of conduct and agrees to be bound by it.(4) Unless the court otherwise orders, oral evidence may not be received from an expert witness unless the court is satisfied that the expert witness has acknowledged, whether in an expert’s report prepared in relation to the proceedings or otherwise in relation to the proceedings, that he or she has read the code of conduct and agrees to be bound by it.rules 31.20–31.26: Subst 2006 (717), Sch 1 [1].
31.24 Conference between expert witnesses
(cf SCR Part 36, rule 13CA; DCR Part 28, rule 9D; LCR Part 23, rule 1E)
(1) The court may direct expert witnesses:(a) to confer, either generally or in relation to specified matters, and(b) to endeavour to reach agreement on any matters in issue, and(c) to prepare a joint report, specifying matters agreed and matters not agreed and reasons for any disagreement, andand may do so at any time, whether before or after the expert witnesses have furnished their experts’ reports.(d) to base any joint report on specified facts or assumptions of fact,(2) The court may direct that a conference be held:(a) with or without the attendance of the parties affected or their legal representatives, or(b) with or without the attendance of the parties affected or their legal representatives, at the option of the parties, or(c) with or without the attendance of a facilitator (that is, a person who is independent of the parties and who may or may not be an expert in relation to the matters in issue).(3) An expert witness so directed may apply to the court for further directions to assist the expert witness in the performance of his or her functions in any respect.(4) Any such application must be made by sending a written request for directions to the court, specifying the matter in relation to which directions are sought.(5) An expert witness who makes such an application must send a copy of the request to the other expert witnesses and to the parties affected.(6) Unless the parties affected agree, the content of the conference between the expert witnesses must not be referred to at any hearing.rules 31.20–31.26: Subst 2006 (717), Sch 1 [1].
31.25 Instructions to expert witnesses where conference ordered before report furnished
If a direction to confer is given under rule 31.24 (1) (a) before the expert witnesses have furnished their reports, the court may give directions as to:(a) the issues to be dealt with in a joint report by the expert witnesses, andincluding a direction that the parties affected must endeavour to agree on the instructions to be provided to the expert witnesses.(b) the facts, and assumptions of fact, on which the report is to be based,rules 31.20–31.26: Subst 2006 (717), Sch 1 [1].
31.26 Joint report arising from conference between expert witnesses
(cf SCR Part 36, rule 13CA; DCR Part 28, rule 9D; LCR Part 23, rule 1E)
(1) This rule applies if expert witnesses prepare a joint report as referred to in rule 31.24 (1) (c).(2) The joint report must specify matters agreed and matters not agreed and the reasons for any disagreement.(3) The joint report may be tendered at the trial as evidence of any matters agreed.(4) In relation to any matters not agreed, the joint report may be used or tendered at the trial only in accordance with the rules of evidence and the practices of the court.(5) Except by leave of the court, a party affected may not adduce evidence from any other expert witness on the issues dealt with in the joint report.rules 31.20–31.26: Subst 2006 (717), Sch 1 [1].
Subdivision 3 Experts’ reports and expert evidence
pt 31, div 2, sdiv 3, hdg: Ins 2006 (717), Sch 1 [1].
31.27 Experts’ reports
(cf SCR Part 36, rule 13C; DCR Part 28, rule 9C; LCR Part 23, rule 1D)
(1) An expert’s report must (in the body of the report or in an annexure to it) include the following:(a) the expert’s qualifications as an expert on the issue the subject of the report,(b) the facts, and assumptions of fact, on which the opinions in the report are based (a letter of instructions may be annexed),(c) the expert’s reasons for each opinion expressed,(d) if applicable, that a particular issue falls outside the expert’s field of expertise,(e) any literature or other materials utilised in support of the opinions,(f) any examinations, tests or other investigations on which the expert has relied, including details of the qualifications of the person who carried them out,(g) in the case of a report that is lengthy or complex, a brief summary of the report (to be located at the beginning of the report).(2) If an expert witness who prepares an expert’s report believes that it may be incomplete or inaccurate without some qualification, the qualification must be stated in the report.(3) If an expert witness considers that his or her opinion is not a concluded opinion because of insufficient research or insufficient data or for any other reason, this must be stated when the opinion is expressed.(4) If an expert witness changes his or her opinion on a material matter after providing an expert’s report to the party engaging him or her (or that party’s legal representative), the expert witness must forthwith provide the engaging party (or that party’s legal representative) with a supplementary report to that effect containing such of the information referred to in subrule (1) as is appropriate.rule 31.27: Subst 2006 (717), Sch 1 [1].
31.28 Disclosure of experts’ reports and hospital reports
(cf SCR Part 36, rule 13A; DCR Part 28, rule 8; LCR Part 23, rule 3)
(1) Each party must serve experts’ reports and hospital reports on each other active party:(a) in accordance with any order of the court, or(b) if no such order is in force, in accordance with any relevant practice note, or(c) if no such order or practice note is in force, not later than 28 days before the date of the hearing at which the report is to be used.(2) An application to the court for an order under subrule (1) (other than an order solely for abridgment or extension of time) may be made without serving notice of motion.(3) Except by leave of the court, or by consent of the parties:(a) an expert’s report or hospital report is not admissible unless it has been served in accordance with this rule, and(b) without limiting paragraph (a), an expert’s report or hospital report, when tendered under section 63, 64 or 69 of the Evidence Act 1995, is not admissible unless it has been served in accordance with this rule, and(c) the oral expert evidence in chief of any expert is not admissible unless an expert’s report or hospital report served in accordance with this rule contains the substance of the matters sought to be adduced in evidence.(4) Leave is not to be given as referred to in subrule (3) unless the court is satisfied:(a) that there are exceptional circumstances that warrant the granting of leave, or(b) that the report concerned merely updates an earlier version of a report that has been served in accordance with subrule (1).rules 31.28, 31.29: Ins 2006 (717), Sch 1 [1].
31.29 Admissibility of expert’s report
(cf SCR Part 36, rule 13B)
(1) If an expert’s report is served in accordance with rule 31.28 or in accordance with an order of the court, the report is admissible:(a) as evidence of the expert’s opinion, andwithout further evidence, oral or otherwise.(b) if the expert’s direct oral evidence of a fact on which the opinion was based would be admissible, as evidence of that fact,(2) Unless the court otherwise orders, a party may require the attendance for cross-examination of the expert by whom the report was prepared by notice served on the party by whom the report was served.(3) Unless the court otherwise orders, such a requirement may not be made later than:(a) in the case of proceedings for which the court has fixed a date for trial, 35 days before the date so fixed, or(b) in any other case, 7 days before the date on which the court fixes a date for trial.(4) The parties may not by consent abridge the time fixed by or under subrule (3).(5) If the expert’s attendance for cross-examination is required under subrule (2), the report may not be tendered under section 63, 64 or 69 of the Evidence Act 1995 or otherwise used unless the expert attends or is dead or the court grants leave to use it.(6) The party using the report may re-examine the expert if the expert attends for cross-examination pursuant to a requirement under subrule (2).(7) This rule does not apply to proceedings in the District Court or the Local Court or to proceedings on a trial with a jury.rules 31.28, 31.29: Ins 2006 (717), Sch 1 [1].
31.30 Admissibility of expert’s report in District Court and Local Court
(cf DCR Part 28, rule 9; LCR Part 23, rule 2)
(1) This rule applies to proceedings in the District Court or the Local Court.(2) If an expert’s report is served in accordance with rule 31.28 or in accordance with an order of the court, the report is admissible:(a) as evidence of the expert’s opinion, andwithout further evidence, oral or otherwise.(b) if the expert’s direct oral evidence of a fact on which the opinion was based would be admissible, as evidence of that fact,(3) Unless the court orders otherwise:(a) it is the responsibility of the party requiring the attendance for cross-examination of the expert by whom an expert’s report has been prepared to procure that attendance, and(b) the party requiring the expert’s attendance must notify the expert at least 28 days before the date on which attendance is required.(4) Except for the purpose of determining any liability for conduct money or witness expenses, an expert does not become the witness for the party requiring his or her attendance merely because his or her attendance at court has been procured by that party.(5) A party who requires the attendance of a person as referred to in subrule (2):(a) must inform all other parties to the proceedings that the party has done so at least 28 days before the date fixed for hearing, and(b) must pay to the person whose attendance is required (whether before or after the attendance) an amount sufficient to meet the person’s reasonable expenses (including any standby fees) in complying with the requirement.(6) If the attendance of an expert is required under subrule (2), the report may not be tendered under section 63, 64 or 69 of the Evidence Act 1995 or otherwise used unless the expert attends or is dead or the court grants leave to use it.(7) The party using an expert’s report may re-examine an expert who attends for cross-examination under a requirement under subrule (2).(8) This rule does not apply to proceedings on a trial with a jury.rule 31.30: Ins 2006 (717), Sch 1 [1]. Am 2007 (579), Sch 2 [4].
31.31 Fees for medical expert for compliance with subpoena
(cf SCR Part 36, rule 13BA)
(1) If a subpoena is served on a medical expert who is to give evidence of medical matters but is not called as a witness, the expert is, unless the court orders otherwise, entitled to be paid, in addition to any other amount payable to the expert, the amount specified in item 2 of Schedule 3.(2) The amount payable under subrule (1) must be paid to the expert by the issuing party within 28 days after the date for the expert’s attendance.(3) A party that requires an expert’s attendance under rule 31.29 (2), but subsequently revokes it, must pay to the issuing party any amount paid by the issuing party under subrule (2), but otherwise such an amount is not recoverable by the issuing party from any other party unless the court so orders.(4) In this rule, issuing party means the party at whose request a subpoena is issued.rules 31.31–31.35: Ins 2006 (717), Sch 1 [1].
31.32 Service of subpoena on medical expert
(cf SCR Part 36, rule 13BB)
(1) Service of a subpoena on a medical expert may be effected, at any place at which the expert’s practice is carried on, by handing it over to a person who is apparently engaged in the practice (whether as an employee or otherwise) and is apparently of or above the age of 16 years.(2) If a person refuses to accept a subpoena when it is handed over, the subpoena may be served by putting it down in the person’s presence after he or she has been told of its nature.(3) If a subpoena requires a medical expert to attend court on a specified date for the purpose of giving evidence on medical matters, it must be served on the expert not later than 21 days before the date so specified unless the court orders otherwise.(4) The parties may not by consent abridge the time fixed by or under subrule (3).rules 31.31–31.35: Ins 2006 (717), Sch 1 [1].
31.33 Subpoena requiring production of medical records
(cf SCR Part 36, rule 13BC)
(1) A subpoena for production may require a medical expert to produce medical records or copies of them.(2) A person is not required to comply with a subpoena for production referred to in subrule (1) unless the amount specified in item 3 of Schedule 3 is paid or tendered to the person at the time of service of the subpoena or a reasonable time before the date on which production is required.(3) Rule 33.6 (Compliance with subpoena) does not apply to a subpoena to which subrule (1) applies.(4) Rule 33.7 (Production otherwise than on attendance) applies to the photocopies in the same way as it applies to the records.(5) If, after service of a subpoena for production referred to in subrule (1), the party who requested the issue of the subpoena requires production of the original medical records without the option of producing copies of them, the party must request the issue of, and serve, another subpoena requiring production of the original medical records.rules 31.31–31.35: Ins 2006 (717), Sch 1 [1].
31.34 Supplementary reports by expert witness
(cf SCR Part 36, rule 13C; DCR Part 28, rule 9C; LCR Part 23, rule 1D)
(1) If an expert witness provides a supplementary report to the party by whom he or she has been engaged, neither the engaging party nor any other party having the same interest as the engaging party may use:(a) the supplementary report, orunless all of those reports have been served on all parties affected.(b) any earlier report affected by the supplementary report,(2) For the purposes of this rule, supplementary report, in relation to an earlier report provided by an expert witness, includes any report by the expert witness that indicates that he or she has changed his or her opinion on a material matter expressed in the earlier report.(3) This rule does not apply to a report prepared by a court-appointed expert.rules 31.31–31.35: Ins 2006 (717), Sch 1 [1].
In any proceedings in which two or more parties call expert witnesses to give opinion evidence about the same issue or similar issues, or indicate to the court an intention to call expert witnesses for that purpose, the court may give any one or more of the following directions:(a) a direction that, at trial:(i) the expert witnesses give evidence after all factual evidence relevant to the issue or issues concerned, or such evidence as may be specified by the court, has been adduced, or(ii) the expert witnesses give evidence at any stage of the trial, whether before or after the plaintiff has closed his or her case, or(iii) each party intending to call one or more expert witnesses close that party’s case in relation to the issue or issues concerned, subject only to adducing evidence of the expert witnesses later in the trial,(b) a direction that, after all factual evidence relevant to the issue, or such evidence as may be specified by the court, has been adduced, each expert witness file an affidavit or statement indicating:(i) whether the expert witness adheres to any opinion earlier given, or(ii) whether, in the light of any such evidence, the expert witness wishes to modify any opinion earlier given,(c) a direction that the expert witnesses:(i) be sworn one immediately after another (so as to be capable of making statements, and being examined and cross-examined, in accordance with paragraphs (d), (e), (f), (g) and (h)), and(ii) when giving evidence, occupy a position in the courtroom (not necessarily the witness box) that is appropriate to the giving of evidence,(d) a direction that each expert witness give an oral exposition of his or her opinion, or opinions, on the issue or issues concerned,(e) a direction that each expert witness give his or her opinion about the opinion or opinions given by another expert witness,(f) a direction that each expert witness be cross-examined in a particular manner or sequence,(g) a direction that cross-examination or re-examination of the expert witnesses giving evidence in the circumstances referred to in paragraph (c) be conducted:(i) by completing the cross-examination or re-examination of one expert witness before starting the cross-examination or re-examination of another, or(ii) by putting to each expert witness, in turn, each issue relevant to one matter or issue at a time, until the cross-examination or re-examination of all of the expert witnesses is complete,(h) a direction that any expert witness giving evidence in the circumstances referred to in paragraph (c) be permitted to ask questions of any other expert witness together with whom he or she is giving evidence as so referred to,(i) such other directions as to the giving of evidence in the circumstances referred to in paragraph (c) as the court thinks fit.rules 31.31–31.35: Ins 2006 (717), Sch 1 [1].
31.36 Service of experts’ reports in professional negligence claims
(cf SCR Part 14C, rules 1 and 6; DCR Part 28, rule 9B)
(1) Unless the court orders otherwise, a person commencing a professional negligence claim (other than a claim against a legal practitioner) must file and serve, with the statement of claim commencing the professional negligence claim, an expert’s report that includes an opinion supporting:(a) the breach of duty of care, or contractual obligation, alleged against each person sued for professional negligence, and(b) the general nature and extent of damage alleged (including death, injury or other loss or harm and prognosis, as the case may require), and(c) the causal relationship alleged between such breach of duty or obligation and the damage alleged.(2) In the case of a professional negligence claim against a legal practitioner, the court may order the plaintiff to file and serve an expert’s report or experts’ reports supporting the claim.(3) If a party fails to comply with subrule (1) or (2), the court may by order made on the application of a party or of its own motion dismiss the whole or any part of the proceedings, as may be appropriate.(4) Without limiting subrule (1) or (2), the court may, on the application of any of the parties, give directions as to the expert evidence to be adduced at trial.(5) Directions under subrule (4) may be sought at any directions hearing or case management conference or by notice of motion.(6) Unless the court otherwise orders, no party may adduce any expert evidence at trial unless the evidence:(a) has been filed and served under subrule (1) or (2), or(b) has been served pursuant to directions given under subrule (4).rule 31.36: Ins 2006 (717), Sch 1 [1]. Am 2007 (327), Sch 1 [6].
Subdivision 4 Parties’ single experts
pt 31, div 2, sdivs 4, 5 (rules 31.37–31.54): Ins 2006 (717), Sch 1 [1].
31.37 Selection and engagement
(1) If an issue for an expert arises in any proceedings, the court may, at any stage of the proceedings, order that an expert be engaged jointly by the parties affected.(2) A parties’ single expert is to be selected by agreement between the parties affected or, failing agreement, by, or in accordance with the directions of, the court.(3) A person may not be engaged as a parties’ single expert unless he or she consents to the engagement.(4) If any party affected knows that a person is under consideration for engagement as a parties’ single expert:(a) the party affected must not, prior to the engagement, communicate with the person for the purpose of eliciting the person’s opinion as to the issue or issues concerned, and(b) if the party affected has previously communicated with the person for that purpose, he or she must notify the other parties affected as to the substance of those communications.pt 31, div 2, sdivs 4, 5 (rules 31.37–31.54): Ins 2006 (717), Sch 1 [1].
31.38 Instructions to parties’ single expert
(1) The parties affected must endeavour to agree on written instructions to be provided to the parties’ single expert concerning the issues arising for the expert’s opinion and concerning the facts, and assumptions of fact, on which the report is to be based.(2) If the parties affected cannot so agree, they must seek directions from the court.pt 31, div 2, sdivs 4, 5 (rules 31.37–31.54): Ins 2006 (717), Sch 1 [1].
31.39 Parties’ single expert may apply to court for directions
(1) The parties’ single expert may apply to the court for directions to assist the expert in the performance of the expert’s functions in any respect.(2) Any such application must be made by sending a written request for directions to the court, specifying the matter in relation to which directions are sought.(3) A parties’ single expert who makes such an application must send a copy of the request to the parties affected.pt 31, div 2, sdivs 4, 5 (rules 31.37–31.54): Ins 2006 (717), Sch 1 [1].
31.40 Parties’ single expert’s report to be sent to parties
(1) The parties’ single expert must send a signed copy of his or her report to each of the parties affected.(2) Each copy must be sent on the same day and must be endorsed with the date on which it is sent.pt 31, div 2, sdivs 4, 5 (rules 31.37–31.54): Ins 2006 (717), Sch 1 [1].
31.41 Parties may seek clarification of report
(1) Within 14 days after the parties’ single expert’s report is sent to the parties affected, and before the report is tendered in evidence, a party affected may, by notice in writing sent to the expert, seek clarification of any aspect of the report.(2) Unless the court orders otherwise, a party affected may send no more than one such notice.(3) Unless the court orders otherwise, the notice must be in the form of questions, no more than 10 in number.(4) The party sending the notice must, on the same day as it is sent to the parties’ single expert, send a copy of it to each of the other parties affected.(5) Each notice sent under this rule must be endorsed with the date on which it is sent.(6) Within 28 days after the notice is sent, the parties’ single expert must send a signed copy of his or her response to the notice to each of the parties affected.pt 31, div 2, sdivs 4, 5 (rules 31.37–31.54): Ins 2006 (717), Sch 1 [1].
31.42 Tender of reports and of answers to questions
(1) Subject to rule 31.23 (3) and unless the court orders otherwise, the parties’ single expert’s report may be tendered in evidence by any of the parties affected.(2) Unless the court orders otherwise, any or all of the parties’ single expert’s answers in response to a request for clarification under rule 31.41 may be tendered in evidence by any of the parties affected.pt 31, div 2, sdivs 4, 5 (rules 31.37–31.54): Ins 2006 (717), Sch 1 [1].
31.43 Cross-examination of parties’ single expert
Any party affected may cross-examine a parties’ single expert, and the expert must attend court for examination or cross-examination if so requested on reasonable notice by a party affected.pt 31, div 2, sdivs 4, 5 (rules 31.37–31.54): Ins 2006 (717), Sch 1 [1].
31.44 Prohibition of other expert evidence
Except by leave of the court, a party to proceedings may not adduce evidence of any other expert on any issue arising in proceedings if a parties’ single expert has been engaged under this Division in relation to that issue.pt 31, div 2, sdivs 4, 5 (rules 31.37–31.54): Ins 2006 (717), Sch 1 [1].
31.45 Remuneration of parties’ single expert
(1) The remuneration of a parties’ single expert is to be fixed by agreement between the parties affected and the expert or, failing agreement, by, or in accordance with the directions of, the court.(2) Subject to subrule (3), the parties affected are jointly and severally liable to a parties’ single expert for his or her remuneration.(3) The court may direct when and by whom a parties’ single expert is to be paid.(4) Subrules (2) and (3) do not affect the powers of the court as to costs.pt 31, div 2, sdivs 4, 5 (rules 31.37–31.54): Ins 2006 (717), Sch 1 [1].
Subdivision 5 Court-appointed experts
pt 31, div 2, sdivs 4, 5 (rules 31.37–31.54): Ins 2006 (717), Sch 1 [1].
31.46 Selection and appointment
(cf SCR Part 39, rule 1; DCR Part 28A, rule 1; LCR Part 38B, rule 1)
(1) If an issue for an expert arises in any proceedings the court may, at any stage of the proceedings:(a) appoint an expert to inquire into and report on the issue, and(b) authorise the expert to inquire into and report on any facts relevant to the inquiry, and(c) direct the expert to make a further or supplemental report or inquiry and report, and(d) give such instructions (including instructions concerning any examination, inspection, experiment or test) as the court thinks fit relating to any inquiry or report of the expert or give directions concerning the giving of such instructions.(2) The court may appoint as a court-appointed expert a person selected by the parties affected, a person selected by the court or a person selected in a manner directed by the court.(3) A person must not be appointed as a court-appointed expert unless he or she consents to the appointment.(4) If any party affected knows that a person is under consideration for appointment as a court-appointed expert:(a) the party affected must not, prior to the appointment, communicate with the person for the purpose of eliciting the person’s opinion as to the issue or issues concerned, and(b) if the party affected has previously communicated with the person for that purpose, he or she must notify the court as to the substance of those communications.pt 31, div 2, sdivs 4, 5 (rules 31.37–31.54): Ins 2006 (717), Sch 1 [1].
31.47 Instructions to court-appointed expert
The court may give directions as to:(a) the issues to be dealt with in a report by a court-appointed expert, andincluding a direction that the parties affected must endeavour to agree on the instructions to be provided to the expert.(b) the facts, and assumptions of fact, on which the report is to be based,pt 31, div 2, sdivs 4, 5 (rules 31.37–31.54): Ins 2006 (717), Sch 1 [1].
31.48 Court-appointed expert may apply to court for directions
(1) A court-appointed expert may apply to the court for directions to assist the expert in the performance of the expert’s functions in any respect.(2) Any such application must be made by sending a written request for directions to the court, specifying the matter in relation to which directions are sought.(3) A court-appointed expert who makes such an application must send a copy of the request to the parties affected.pt 31, div 2, sdivs 4, 5 (rules 31.37–31.54): Ins 2006 (717), Sch 1 [1].
31.49 Court-appointed expert’s report to be sent to registrar
(cf SCR Part 39, rule 3; DCR Part 28A, rule 3; LCR Part 38B, rule 3)
(1) The court-appointed expert must send his or her report to the registrar, and a copy of the report to each party affected.(2) Subject to rule 31.23 (3) and unless the court orders otherwise, a report that has been received by the registrar is taken to be in evidence in any hearing concerning a matter to which it relates.(3) A court-appointed expert who, after sending a report to the registrar, changes his or her opinion on a material matter must forthwith provide the registrar with a supplementary report to that effect.pt 31, div 2, sdivs 4, 5 (rules 31.37–31.54): Ins 2006 (717), Sch 1 [1].
31.50 Parties may seek clarification of court-appointed expert’s report
Any party affected may apply to the court for leave to seek clarification of any aspect of the court-appointed expert’s report.pt 31, div 2, sdivs 4, 5 (rules 31.37–31.54): Ins 2006 (717), Sch 1 [1].
31.51 Cross-examination of court-appointed expert
(cf SCR Part 39, rule 4; DCR Part 28A, rule 4; LCR Part 38B, rule 4)
Any party affected may cross-examine a court-appointed expert, and the expert must attend court for examination or cross-examination if so requested on reasonable notice by a party affected.pt 31, div 2, sdivs 4, 5 (rules 31.37–31.54): Ins 2006 (717), Sch 1 [1].
31.52 Prohibition of other expert evidence
(cf SCR Part 39, rule 6; DCR Part 28A, rule 6; LCR Part 38B, rule 6)
Except by leave of the court, a party to proceedings may not adduce evidence of any expert on any issue arising in proceedings if a court-appointed expert has been appointed under this Division in relation to that issue.pt 31, div 2, sdivs 4, 5 (rules 31.37–31.54): Ins 2006 (717), Sch 1 [1].
31.53 Remuneration of court-appointed expert
(cf SCR Part 39, rule 5; DCR Part 28A, rule 5; LCR Part 38B, rule 5)
(1) The remuneration of a court-appointed expert is to be fixed by agreement between the parties affected and the expert or, failing agreement, by, or in accordance with the directions of, the court.(2) Subject to subrule (3), the parties affected are jointly and severally liable to a court-appointed witness for his or her remuneration.(3) The court may direct when and by whom a court-appointed expert is to be paid.(4) Subrules (2) and (3) do not affect the powers of the court as to costs.pt 31, div 2, sdivs 4, 5 (rules 31.37–31.54): Ins 2006 (717), Sch 1 [1].
31.54 Assistance to court by other persons
(cf SCR Part 39, rule 7; DCR Part 28A, rule 7; LCR Part 38B, rule 7)
(1) In any proceedings, the court may obtain the assistance of any person specially qualified to advise on any matter arising in the proceedings and may act on the adviser’s opinion.(2) Rule 31.53 applies to and in respect of a person referred to in subrule (1) in the same way as it applies to and in respect of a court-appointed witness.(3) This rule does not apply to proceedings in the Admiralty List of the Supreme Court or to proceedings that are tried before a jury.pt 31, div 2, sdivs 4, 5 (rules 31.37–31.54): Ins 2006 (717), Sch 1 [1].
Division 3
(Repealed)
pt 31, div 3: Rep 2006 (717), Sch 1 [1].
Part 32 Evidence and Procedure (New Zealand) Act 1994 (Commonwealth)
32.1 Definitions
(cf SCR Part 36A, rule 1)
(1) In this Part:another court means an inferior court.the Commonwealth Act means the Evidence and Procedure (New Zealand) Act 1994 of the Commonwealth.(2) Expressions used in this Part have the same meanings as they have in the Commonwealth Act.
32.2 Leave to serve subpoena
(cf SCR Part 36A, rule 3)
(1) Application for leave under the Commonwealth Act to serve a subpoena in New Zealand must be made:(a) if the subpoena is issued in proceedings in the Supreme Court, by motion in the proceedings, or(b) in any other case, by summons in the Common Law Division joining as defendant the person to whom the subpoena is addressed.(2) The application must be supported by an affidavit annexing a copy of the subpoena and setting out the following:(a) the name, designation or occupation, and address of the person named and whether that person is over 18 years of age,(b) the nature and significance of the evidence to be required from the person named, or of the document or thing required to be produced by that person,(c) details of the steps taken to ascertain whether the evidence, document or thing could be obtained by other means without significantly greater expense, and with less inconvenience, to the person named,(d) the date by which it is intended to serve the subpoena,(e) details of:(i) the calculation of the sum sufficient to meet reasonable expenses in complying with the subpoena, and(ii) how and when those expenses are to be paid, or tendered, to that person in money or in vouchers,(f) if the subpoena requires the person named to give evidence, an estimate of the time that person will be required to attend to give evidence,(g) details of any facts or matters known to the deponent which may provide cause for the subpoena to be set aside under section 14 (2) and (3) of the Commonwealth Act.(3) Unless the Supreme Court orders otherwise, the applicant for leave may proceed without serving the summons or notice of motion on any person.(4) Before granting leave under the Commonwealth Act to serve a subpoena, the Supreme Court may require the applicant for leave to undertake to meet the expenses or loss reasonably incurred by the person named, not being a party to the proceedings, in complying with the subpoena, if those expenses or loss exceed the allowances and travelling expenses to be provided to that person at the time of service of the subpoena.
32.3 Production of document or thing under subpoena
(cf SCR Part 36A, rule 4)
If the court receives a fax under section 17 of the Evidence Amendment Act 1994 of New Zealand, the registrar may confirm with the registry that issued the receipt in New Zealand that the document or thing produced is able to be transported to the Supreme Court as soon as practicable so that the document or thing may be produced in the Supreme Court on the date the person named in the subpoena was to have attended.
32.4 Failure to comply with subpoena issued by the Supreme Court
(cf SCR Part 36A, rule 5)
(1) A person may apply to the Supreme Court for a certificate under section 16 of the Commonwealth Act by filing a notice of motion together with:(a) an affidavit of service of the subpoena and order and notice referred to in section 10 (3) of the Commonwealth Act, and(b) an affidavit stating:(i) particulars of the order granting leave to serve the subpoena, and(ii) whether application was made to set aside the subpoena and, if so, particulars of the application and of its outcome, and(iii) that the subpoena was not complied with, and(c) a draft certificate.(2) Despite subrule (1), application for a certificate may be made orally if the proceedings in which the certificate is sought are then before the Supreme Court.(3) Unless the Supreme Court orders otherwise, the applicant need not serve notice of motion for the issue of the certificate.(4) An application under subrule (1) may be determined or dealt with by the Supreme Court in the absence of the public and without any attendance by or on behalf of any person.
32.5 Setting aside subpoena
(cf SCR Part 36A, rule 6)
(1) A person may apply to the Supreme Court to set aside a subpoena under section 13 of the Commonwealth Act by filing a notice of motion together with an affidavit setting out the facts and grounds on which the application is based.(2) The notice of motion must be filed at, or faxed for filing to, the Sydney registry of the Supreme Court.(3) If the Supreme Court receives a notice of motion by post or fax, it must acknowledge receipt and advise the applicant whether or not the notice of motion has been accepted for filing and, if it has not been accepted, the reasons for its rejection.(4) The registrar must serve the notice of motion and affidavit on the party who obtained leave to serve the subpoena, and may do so by faxing them to that party’s fax number.(5) An application under this rule is to be determined in such manner as the Supreme Court may direct.
32.6 Evidence by video-link or telephone
(cf SCR Part 36A, rule 7)
(1) A person may apply to the Supreme Court for a direction under section 25 of the Commonwealth Act (being a direction that evidence be taken, or submissions made, by video-link or telephone from New Zealand) by filing a notice of motion together with an affidavit stating the following:(a) the reasons why such a procedure is desirable,(b) the nature of the evidence to be taken,(c) the number of witnesses to be examined,(d) the expected duration of the evidence,(e) whether issues of character are likely to be raised,(f) in the case of submissions, the expected duration of the submissions,(g) the facilities available for such a procedure or that can reasonably be made available,(h) that the requirements of section 26 or 27 of the Commonwealth Act are able to be met.(2) In deciding whether to grant the application, the Supreme Court may take account of the matters set out in the applicant’s affidavit in addition to any other matters considered to be material, including cost and convenience to the witness and all parties.(3) If the Supreme Court makes a direction under section 25 (1) of the Commonwealth Act that evidence be taken, or submissions made, by video-link or telephone from New Zealand, it may direct the registrar to arrange and co-ordinate the appropriate facilities in Australia and New Zealand.(4) Without limiting the generality of subrule (3), the Supreme Court may direct:(a) that the registrar arrange for the evidence to be given, or the submissions to be made, at the High Court of New Zealand or at another place approved by that court, and(b) that an officer of the High Court of New Zealand, or another person approved by the Supreme Court, be requested to be present to assist in the transmission of the evidence or submissions and, in particular, to:(i) introduce witnesses to be called and legal representatives, and(ii) assist with the administration of oaths, if necessary, and(iii) assist with the implementation of any directions or requests given or made by the judicial officer or other officer hearing the evidence or submissions.
32.7 Fax copies
(cf SCR Part 36A, rule 8)
(1) Part 6 of the Commonwealth Act is taken to apply to a fax of a document in the same way as it applies to the original of the document (whether or not that original is itself a copy or an extract of a document).(2) If a fax of a document is adduced in evidence under Part 6 of the Commonwealth Act, the party adducing that evidence must file in the registry a copy of the fax.
Part 33 Subpoenas
Note—
The provisions of this Part comprise uniform rules developed under the auspices of the Australian Council of Chief Justices.
pt 33, note: Ins 2006 (288), Sch 1 [11].
33.1 Definitions
(cf SCR Part 37, rule 1)
(1) In this Part:addressee means the person who is the subject of the order expressed in a subpoena.conduct money means a sum of money or its equivalent, such as pre-paid travel, sufficient to meet the reasonable expenses of the addressee of attending court as required by the subpoena and returning after so attending.issuing officer means an officer of the court who is empowered to issue a subpoena on behalf of the court.issuing party means the party at whose request a subpoena is issued.registrar, in relation to proceedings in respect of which a subpoena is sought or issued, means:(a) in relation to the Supreme Court, the principal registrar, and(b) in relation to the District Court:(i) the principal registrar, or(ii) the registrar of the District Court for the proclaimed place (within the meaning of the District Court Act 1973) where the subpoena was issued, or where the subpoena is returnable, whichever is applicable, and(c) in relation to the Local Court, the registrar of the Local Court for the venue where the subpoena was issued.subpoena means an order in writing requiring the addressee:(a) to attend to give evidence, or(b) to produce the subpoena or a copy of it and a document or thing, or(c) to do both of those things.(2) To the extent that a subpoena requires the addressee to attend to give evidence, it is called a subpoena to attend to give evidence.(3) To the extent that a subpoena requires the addressee to produce the subpoena or a copy of it and a document or thing, it is called a subpoena to produce.Note—See also rules 7.3, 10.12, 10.20, 31.20, 31.22 and 31.23 with respect to the issue and service of subpoenas.rule 33.1: Am 2007 (501), Sch 1 [3]; 2007 (579), Sch 2 [5].
33.2 Issuing of subpoena
(cf SCR Part 37, rule 2)
(1) The court may, in any proceeding, by subpoena order the addressee:(a) to attend to give evidence as directed by the subpoena, or(b) to produce the subpoena or a copy of it and any document or thing as directed by the subpoena, or(c) to do both of those things.(2) An issuing officer must not issue a subpoena:(a) if the court has made an order, or there is a rule of the court, having the effect of requiring that the proposed subpoena:(i) not be issued, or(ii) not be issued without the leave of the court and that leave has not been given, or(b) requiring the production of a document or thing in the custody of the court or another court.(3) The issuing officer must seal with the seal of the court, or otherwise authenticate, a sufficient number of copies of the subpoena for service and proof of service.(4) A subpoena is taken to have been issued on its being sealed or otherwise authenticated in accordance with subrule (3).
33.3 Form of subpoena
(cf SCR Part 37, rule 3)
(1) A subpoena must be in the approved form.(2) A subpoena must not be addressed to more than one person.(3) Unless the court orders otherwise, a subpoena must identify the addressee by name or by description of office or position.(4) A subpoena to produce must:(a) identify the document or thing to be produced, and(b) specify the date, time and place for production.(5) A subpoena to attend to give evidence must specify the date, time and place for attendance.(6) The date specified in a subpoena must be the date of trial or any other date as permitted by the court.(7) The place specified for production may be the court or the address of any person authorised to take evidence in the proceeding as permitted by the court.(8) The last date for service of a subpoena:(a) is the date falling 5 days before the earliest date on which an addressee is required to comply with the subpoena or an earlier or later date fixed by the court, and(b) must be specified in the subpoena.(9) If the addressee is a corporation, the corporation must comply with the subpoena by its appropriate or proper officer.rule 33.3: Am 2007 (164), Sch 1 [7].
33.4 Setting aside or other relief
(cf SCR Part 37, rule 4)
(1) The court may, on the application of a party or any person having a sufficient interest, set aside a subpoena in whole or in part, or grant other relief in respect of it.(2) An application under subrule (1) must be made on notice to the issuing party.(3) The court may order that the applicant give notice of the application to any other party or to any other person having a sufficient interest.
33.5 Service
(cf SCR Part 37, rule 5)
(1) A subpoena must be served personally on the addressee.(2) The issuing party must serve a copy of a subpoena to produce on each other active party as soon as practicable after the subpoena has been served on the addressee.rule 33.5: Am 2005 (395), Sch 1 [38].
33.6 Compliance with subpoena
(cf SCR Part 37, rule 6)
(1) An addressee need not comply with the requirements of a subpoena to attend to give evidence unless conduct money has been handed or tendered to the addressee a reasonable time before the date on which attendance is required.(2) An addressee need not comply with the requirements of a subpoena unless it is served on or before the date specified in the subpoena as the last date for service of the subpoena.(3) Despite rule 33.5 (1), an addressee must comply with the requirements of a subpoena even if it has not been served personally on that addressee if the addressee has, by the last date for service of the subpoena, actual knowledge of the subpoena and of its requirements.(4) The addressee must comply with a subpoena to produce:(a) by attending at the date, time and place specified for production and producing the subpoena or a copy of it and the document or thing to the court or to the person authorised to take evidence in the proceeding as permitted by the court, or(b) by delivering or sending the subpoena or a copy of it and the document or thing to the registrar at the address specified for the purpose in the subpoena, so that they are received not less than 2 clear days before the date specified in the subpoena for attendance and production.(5) In the case of a subpoena that is both a subpoena to attend to give evidence and a subpoena to produce, production of the subpoena or a copy of it and of the document or thing in any of the ways permitted by subrule (4) does not discharge the addressee from the obligation to attend to give evidence.
33.7 Production otherwise than on attendance
(cf SCR Part 37, rule 7)
(1) This rule applies if an addressee produces a document or thing in accordance with rule 33.6 (4) (b).(2) The registrar must, if requested by the addressee, give a receipt for the document or thing to the addressee.(3) If the addressee produces more than one document or thing, the addressee must, if requested by the registrar, provide a list of the documents or things produced.(4) The addressee may, with the consent of the issuing party, produce a copy, instead of the original, of any document required to be produced.(5) The addressee may at the time of production inform the registrar in writing that any document or copy of a document produced need not be returned and may be destroyed.
33.8 Removal, return, inspection, copying and disposal of documents and things
(cf SCR Part 37, rule 8)
The court may give directions in relation to the removal from and return to the court, and the inspection, copying and disposal, of any document or thing that has been produced to the court in response to a subpoena.
33.9 Inspection of, and dealing with, documents and things produced otherwise than on attendance
(cf SCR Part 37, rule 9)
(1) This rule applies if an addressee produces a document or thing in accordance with rule 33.6 (4) (b).(2) On the request in writing of a party, the registrar must inform the party whether production in response to a subpoena has occurred, and, if so, include a description, in general terms, of the documents and things produced.(3) Subject to this rule, no person may inspect a document or thing produced unless the court has granted leave and the inspection is in accordance with that leave.