The Shorter Trials Scheme—a time-sensitive case management process for quicker and less costly access to justice—was introduced in September 2015 for cases in the commercial, technology and construction courts, the chancery division and the mercantile courts of England & Wales. The recent Court of Appeal decision in National Bank of Abu Dhabi v BP saw the procedural road tested for the first time, with generally positive feedback.

Background -

The scheme is intended to ease the time and cost burden for disputing parties when pursuing a case through the various courts. The scheme, ideal for cases where the outcome turns on the determination of a single, albeit materially significant, issue, aims to reach trial within 10 months of proceedings having been issued, with judgment to follow within 6 weeks. The length of the trial itself is limited to 4 days (including judicial reading time).