BakerPlatt Makes Legal History in Jersey

17th February 2009
Litigation first for Jersey law firm

Recently introduced provisions in Jersey law have enabled a local law firm to make history in the Royal Court this week in a ruling that will have significant implications for the awarding of costs in future dispute cases.

Litigation specialists BakerPlatt have become the first Jersey law firm to obtain, for the benefit of their client, a summary assessment of costs, which must now be paid by the other party.
 
David Wilson, Partner, and William Redgrave, Senior Associate, were acting in relation to a shareholder dispute before the Royal Court involving a Jersey company.  Having successfully resisted the other party’s application to stay the proceedings, Advocate Wilson applied to have his costs assessed by the Court at the hearing itself.  The Court agreed and, for the first time in Jersey, made an immediate order that the other party pay a definite sum to BakerPlatt’s client.
 
Advocate Wilson explained that, as well as setting a precedent for future cases, the ruling would have particular significance in the current global market conditions:

’The introduction and successful application in Jersey of these new rules relating to the summary assessment of costs will greatly assist those involved in Jersey dispute cases. That awarding costs can now be directly enforced against the other party, without the need to issue fresh proceedings, is a major advancement. It provides a real advantage for those who find themselves involved in a litigation case – particularly given the economic climate, in which cash flow can be critical.’

Ends.

For further information, please contact Adam Riddell at Crystal Public Relations on tel. +44 (0) 1534 639505 or e-mail adam@crystalpr.co.uk