Express law No. 202

20 November 2013

New Federal Court guide to the Individual Docket System

On 14 November 2013 the Federal Court of Australia published the Guide to Individual Docket System in the original jurisdiction of the Federal Court of Australia.

Background

The guide provides information to assist parties and their lawyers to conduct a proceeding in the Court in a way that is consistent with the overarching purpose of civil practice and procedure and, in particular, a way that enables it to be dealt with according to law as quickly, inexpensively and efficiently as possible.

The guide should be read in conjunction with the practice notes issued by the Chief Justice of the Court, particularly Practice Note CM 1, and the obligations imposed by sections 37M and 37N of the Federal Court of Australia Act 1976 in relation to the conduct of proceedings in the Court.

The guide is primarily aimed at civil cases (other than appeals) being managed in a docket; however, some parts apply more generally.

The topics covered by the guide include:

  • return date
  • interlocutory applications
  • directions hearings and case management conferences
  • consent orders
  • urgent applications
  • communications with chambers
  • practice notes and administrative notices.

The guide is available on the Federal Court website.

The practice notes issued by the Chief Justice are also on the Federal Court website.

Another useful tool is the Law Council of Australia's Case Management Handbook.

 

Important: The material in Express law is provided to clients as an early, interim view for general information only, and further analysis on the matter may be prepared by AGS. The material should not be relied upon for the purpose of a particular matter. Please contact AGS before any action or decision is taken on the basis of any of the material in this message.

Contacts

SYD
Daley PSM, Simon

Chief Solicitor Dispute Resolution

CBR
Blunn, Matthew

The Australian Government Solicitor

MEL
Nance, Emily

Deputy Chief Solicitor Dispute Resolution

Administrative law
ADL
Nelson, Nerida

National Practice Manager and Director Adelaide office