The New Rules
The new procedural rules brought into force by The Family Proceedings (Amendment No 2) Rules 1999 apply to all County Courts and to the Principal Registry in London. Their purpose is to provide increased Court control of the proceedings and a clear framework to the proceedings. For further background information to these changes
In theory the issue of Court proceedings should be a last resort but in practice - with a First Appointment 3 to 4 months after the issue of those proceedings - it is becoming increasingly common to issue the application in order to "get the show on the road" as soon as possible. It remains to be seen whether this will be regarded as a hostile or essential step in the negotiations.
For the full text of the new rules please go to www.hmso.gov.uk/hmso.htm