Jackson Report Way Forward For Civil Justice Reform

21 May 2009 pr029.09

The Interim report on civil litigation reform by Lord Jackson has been welcomed by ILEX. It is a clearly thought out and argued piece of work that attempts to set a clear path through the minefield of civil litigation costs and provides the legal profession with much food for thought.

“We look forward to submitting our comments to him,” says ILEX Law Reform Officer, Gus Ghataura. “Overhaul of the system is clearly needed and ILEX supports that in principle. The existing system has much to commend it, but there are areas of cost litigation that are increasingly out of step with modern practice.

“But whatever the recommendations that may emerge from Lord Jackson’s final report, ILEX believes the underlying principle has to be maintained that justice should be accessible to all and cost should not be a deterrent from seeking justice.

“ILEX has long held the view that civil litigation costs should be reasonable, to ensure those with meritorious claims are not put off from pursuing justice. But the present government policy of moving to a system where the courts are self–financing will jeopardize this. This is out of step with public opinion and needs a radical re-think. If we want to continue to have a court system which at its highest level is efficient, fair and the envy of many other jurisdictions, that will come at a price.”

Ends