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05 June 2026
Issue: 8164 / Categories: Legal News , Procedure & practice , Civil way , Damages , Liability
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NLJ this week: Civil procedure’s quiet rule changes

A series of procedural developments could have significant practical consequences for litigators. Writing in NLJ this week, columnist Stephen Gold highlights important updates ranging from digital court reforms to family procedure and admissions of liability

Among the headline changes are expanded capabilities within the Damages Claims Portal, allowing certain non-monetary claims to be handled digitally, and revisions to standard family orders under the supervision of Mr Justice Peel.

Gold also examines a High Court ruling confirming that pre-action admissions made before October 2023 may still require court permission to withdraw. In Industrial Maintenance Engineers v Webster Miller, an insurer's statement that 'liability is accepted' proved decisive, binding the defendant despite later insurance complications.

Meanwhile, defendants in credit hire disputes are warned to draft debarring orders carefully after Motor Insurers Bureau v Houston clarified the limits of restrictions relating to impecuniosity evidence. 

MOVERS & SHAKERS

Anthony Collins—20 promotions

Anthony Collins—20 promotions

20 promotions mark major people investment at national law firm, Anthony Collins

Sidley—Elaine Whiteford

Sidley—Elaine Whiteford

Sidley adds competition litigator Elaine Whiteford in London

Charles Russell Speechlys—Claudina D’Costa

Charles Russell Speechlys—Claudina D’Costa

Charles Russell Speechlys welcomes Claudina D’Costa as Director of Client Development Marketing

NEWS
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Choosing the wrong expert can cost a clinical negligence claimant more than their case
Judges risk weakening their own independence by staying silent over government reforms, a leading public lawyer argues
A discount on damages does not automatically mean an equivalent haircut for legal costs in military deafness claims
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