NLJ this week: Civil shake-up—NDAs, whiplash, and legal aid reform

From 1 October, non-disclosure agreements will face tighter limits under the Victims and Prisoners Act 2024. Whiplash tariffs rise a modest 14–15%, irking claimants. The Court Funds Office slashes interest rates again, and legal aid expands for domestic abuse cases.

The OCMC pilot becomes mandatory from July, while At a Glance loses its tabs but gains new case law extracts. Meanwhile, court transfer thresholds jump to £7m and £1m.

Gold’s commentary blends procedural insight with dry wit, noting that while the law evolves, some things—like the need for careful drafting—remain constant. His column is a must-read for practitioners navigating the shifting terrain of civil litigation.