Lawyers chastised for non-compliance with PDs

During a return to the bench, Sir James Munby chastised lawyers for ignoring practice directions (PDs) despite hefty fees. Costs in the case had reached £900,000 on a single hearing, however, Sir Munby was unimpressed with the bundle. Referring to the relevant PD, issued in 2000, he said: "How many more years – decades – have to pass before those who ought to know better, and who, as in the present case, are being more than handsomely remunerated, comply with their obligations?"