CE-File: electronic filing and case management under PD 5C

by Practical Law Dispute Resolution

A practice note that provides guidance on using CE-File, the electronic filing and case management system in the UK courts, governed by Practice Direction (PD) 5C. This practice note outlines the courts in which CE-File is mandatory for legally represented parties, including the High Court jurisdictions and the Court of Appeal, and details the proceedings that are excluded. It explains the procedural rules for using CE-File, including the requirements for submitting documents, making urgent applications, and paying fees. This practice note also provides critical information on the acceptance and rejection of submissions by the court, the potential reasons for rejection, and the significant effect this can have on the date of filing. It explores the crucial implications for limitation periods, discussing how the date and time of filing are determined. Further, it covers the rules for handling original and hard copy documents, service obligations, the transfer of proceedings and inspection of documents by non- parties. The practice note also details court-specific guidance for the King's Bench Division (KBD), Chancery Division, Commercial Court, Technology and Construction Court (TCC) and the Court of Appeal.