Civil Procedure Code

The Civil Procedure Code is a comprehensive set of rules and regulations that govern the process of conducting civil lawsuits in courts. It establishes the procedural framework for civil court proceedings, covering everything from the initial filing of a lawsuit to its final resolution. This includes rules on jurisdiction, pleadings, evidence, hearings, appeals, and enforcement of judgments. The purpose of the Civil Procedure Code is to ensure fairness, order, and efficiency in the adjudication of civil disputes.

In practical terms, the Civil Procedure Code specifies which court has authority over a case, how to properly file a lawsuit, what documents and evidence must be submitted, and the procedures the court follows to hear and decide the case. It is fundamental for legal professionals as it governs the practical steps and processes involved in civil litigation.

Different jurisdictions have their own versions of civil procedure rules. For example:

• In England and Wales, the Civil Procedure Rules (CPR) were introduced in 1997 to make legal proceedings cheaper, quicker, and easier to understand, replacing older rules with clearer language and a focus on access to justice.

• In the United States, the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure govern civil proceedings in federal district courts. These rules aim to secure the just, speedy, and inexpensive determination of every civil action. They cover all aspects of civil litigation, including commencing an action, pleadings, motions, pretrial conferences, and trial procedures.

Thus, the Civil Procedure Code or its equivalent rules serve as the backbone of civil litigation, ensuring that disputes are resolved through a structured and fair legal process.