MoJ “keen” on Jackson fixed costs reforms but they will generate “cottage industry”, says leading QC

The Ministry of Justice is keen on taking forward Lord Justice Jackson’s plans to extend the use of fixed costs, according to a leading QC. However, Nick Bacon QC also told today’s Association of Costs Lawyers annual conference that the reforms were likely to lead to a “cottage industry” for costs specialists as the way they operate is worked out.

Ministry of Justice begins process of refunding £33m in employment tribunal fees

The government expects to refund £33m to employment tribunal claimants after the Supreme Court ruled tribunal fees unlawful. The Ministry of Justice has also published today the first details of how it will go about returning the fees.

Hodge urges judges and lawyers to improve “scientific literacy” to understand expert evidence

A Supreme Court justice has called for judges and lawyers to improve their “scientific literacy” to ensure they did their job effectively in cases involving expert evidence. Lord Hodge also reassured experts that courts do not presume them to be “hired guns” who allow their instructing solicitors to call the tune.

District judge takes claim for whistleblower protection to Court of Appeal

“ADR is failing” says Civil Justice Council but compulsion is not yet the answer

Government accepts Jackson’s call for CJC to seek industry agreement on low-value clin neg claims