In the first of a new regular monthly column, James Bickford Smith discusses recent decisions insisting on the need for prompt service of Particulars of Claim in cases where interim relief has been obtained. In particular, he considers the implications of Caterpillar Logistics Services (UK) Ltd v de Crean [2012] EWCA Civ 156 on the practice of extending, by agreement, procedural deadlines laid down in a court order.

James is a barrister at Littleton Chambers specialising in commercial and employment law.