header-logo header-logo

25 February 2016 / Dominic Regan
Issue: 7688 / Categories: Opinion , Costs , Budgeting
printer mail-detail

Perception matters

Jackson: Dominic Regan returns to set the record straight

Last week I faithfully recounted the objections voiced to me by practitioners about the latest Jackson reform proposals (see “Is Jackson's legacy under pressure?”). The core recommendation was a fixed costs regime applicable across the board in cases worth up to £250,000. Since I wrote that article I have received information and representations from a variety of sources, including members of the judiciary, which cast a different light upon common perceptions. Sir Rupert, quite rightly, remains aloof from the current arguments.

Practicalities

On a practical note, it is evident that nothing will change this year. The involvement of Mr Gove in the referendum campaign will be a major distraction for him. Soundings and consultation are recognised as a pre-requisite of change on this scale.

Independence

Anyone who thought that Lord Justice Jackson was speaking on behalf of the government is wrong. He is utterly independent. This was the judge brave enough in

If you are not a subscriber, subscribe now to read this content
If you are already a subscriber sign in
...or Register for two weeks' free access to subscriber content

MOVERS & SHAKERS

mfg Solicitors—Hannah Finnegan

mfg Solicitors—Hannah Finnegan

Law firm strengthens private client team to support continued growth

Devonshires—Andrew Cromb

Devonshires—Andrew Cromb

Devonshires expands offering with appointment of tax partner Andrew Cromb

Freeths—John Jones

Freeths—John Jones

Freeths strengthens senior leadership team with Chief Technology Officer appointment

NEWS
Mr Justice Nicklin’s decision to order costs on an indemnity basis may be a ‘significant win’ but it’s still ‘far from game, set and match’ for Associated Newspapers, a former costs judge has said
The Law Society RFC Festival of Sport returns next month, bringing together legal and financial services professionals for one of the sector’s largest annual sporting events
Legal aid deserts leave almost one in four without adequate access to justice
The Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) has warned solicitors and law firms that using artificial intelligence does not alter their professional obligations, amid concerns over inaccurate legal material and client confidentiality
From forgotten interest claims to case-management appeals, a string of procedural developments offers useful—and occasionally cautionary—lessons for practitioners
back-to-top-scroll