Litigation rarely stops at claim and defence. Once the defendant responds, the dispute can branch in several directions — the claimant may want the last word, the defendant may turn round and sue the claimant, pull in someone new, or pass the blame to a co-defendant. As a solicitor, knowing which document to file, by when, and whether you need permission is what keeps your client's position protected and your case moving.
This lesson walks you through each of those moves in turn:
- The Reply — the claimant's optional response to new points raised in the defence, and what happens if none is filed.
- Part 20 Claims and Counterclaims — the framework that captures every claim beyond the original one, and how a counterclaim differs from a set-off.
- Defence to Counterclaim — the deadlines for responding and what the defendant can do if the claimant doesn't.
- Claims Against an Additional Party — how a defendant brings a non-party into the proceedings and what relief can be sought.
- Contribution Claims Between Co-Defendants — recovering from a co-defendant already before the court, and the basis on which the court splits liability.
By the end, you'll know exactly how each claim is started, the timing, and when the court's permission is required.