How a claim form is issued, how long it remains valid, and the strict rules governing where, how and on whom it must be served.
A claim served late, at the wrong address or by the wrong method can be fatal to the action, however strong its merits. This chapter starts with issue — the moment proceedings commence and the limitation clock is tested against — then works through the claim form's validity period and the two very different tests for extending time before and after it expires. It then maps the mechanics of service: the permitted methods, the correct place and recipient for individuals, companies and solicitors authorised to accept service, and the deemed service rules that fix the date on which service takes effect. Finally, it covers the particulars of claim, the defendant's options on responding, and the special regimes for alternative service and serving out of the jurisdiction.
