GB DRWG Proposes Simplification of Disclosure Rules via PD57AD Amendments

• The Disclosure Review Working Group (DRWG) is simplifying disclosure rules for Business and Property Courts (BPC) via amendments to Practice Direction (PD) 57AD.
• A survey of legal sector stakeholders conducted at the end of 2025 informed the DRWG's proposals, which aim to reduce complexity, front-loading, and cost.
• The DRWG will consult on a series of recommendations later this year or early in 2027, with a focus on improving the efficiency and effectiveness of BPC procedures.

The DRWG aims to produce a series of recommendations that will be consulted on later this year or early in 2027.

The Disclosure Review Working Group (DRWG) has continued its work towards simplifying disclosure rules for the Business and Property Courts (BPC). The group's efforts focus on amending Practice Direction (PD) 57AD, with a goal of reducing complexity, front-loading, and cost. To inform their proposals, the DRWG conducted a survey of legal sector stakeholders at the end of 2025 and the beginning of 2026. The results of this survey are now available for download, providing valuable insights for practitioners and users of the BPCs.

The DRWG has also held several meetings in recent months to discuss potential changes to PD57AD. These discussions aim to produce a series of recommendations that will be consulted on later this year or early in 2027.

Practice Direction (PD) 57AD is an important aspect of the Business and Property Courts (BPC), governing disclosure rules. The Civil Procedure Rules, specifically Part 31, also play a significant role in this area. However, the DRWG is not proposing to revert to these earlier rules. Instead, they seek to simplify the current regime by addressing issues such as complexity, front-loading, and cost.

The DRWG's efforts are part of ongoing reforms aimed at improving the efficiency and effectiveness of the BPCs. By streamlining disclosure rules, the group hopes to reduce the burden on practitioners and users, ultimately benefiting all parties involved in these courts.

The proposed changes to Practice Direction (PD) 57AD have significant implications for lawyers practicing in the Business and Property Courts (BPC). As the DRWG seeks to simplify disclosure rules, practitioners should be aware of the potential impact on their work. By understanding these changes, lawyers can better navigate the evolving landscape of BPC procedures.

The DRWG's efforts also highlight the ongoing need for reform in this area. By addressing issues such as complexity and cost, the group aims to create a more efficient and effective system for all users of the BPCs.

Lawyers should watch for proposed changes to Practice Direction (PD) 57AD, which aim to simplify the regime and reduce complexity, front-loading, and cost in Business and Property Courts.

Source: Original reporting via Courts and Tribunals Judiciary