Key Takeaways
- A CPR 18 request for further information is a formal step in civil litigation in England and Wales, used to clarify issues in dispute before trial.
- There is no fixed deadline in the Civil Procedure Rules for replying; instead, you must be allowed a “reasonable time” to respond, set out in the request.
- Failing to respond or object within the required time may result in court sanctions, costs penalties or harm to your case.
- If you cannot answer fully or in time, promptly set out your reasons or objections in writing to the requesting party.
- Immediate action and legal guidance are critical, as missed deadlines can damage your position in court.
- Our solicitors at Go Legal specialise in all aspects of CPR 18 requests, offering practical advice and robust responses to protect your interests.
- Go Legal is rated Excellent on Trustpilot with over 130 five-star reviews and a 4.9/5 client rating.
What Is a CPR 18 Request for Further Information and How Long Do I Have to Respond?
A CPR 18 request for further information is a formal process in English civil litigation allowing one party to clarify matters in dispute by asking focused questions of the other. The Civil Procedure Rules require that any deadline for response in a written request must give a “reasonable time,” taking into account the matters being clarified.
If you receive a CPR 18 request, prompt and accurate action is essential to keep your case on track and avoid negative consequences. Our solicitors at Go Legal have extensive experience guiding clients through CPR 18 requests, ensuring your response protects your position.
What Is a CPR 18 Request for Further Information?
A CPR 18 request is a written request served during civil proceedings in England and Wales. It is designed to clarify ambiguous or insufficiently clear points in the pleadings (such as particulars of claim or defence) so the parties and court can properly understand the issues for trial.
The request focuses exclusively on factual matters in dispute, not on seeking documents or broader disclosure.
How Does a CPR 18 Request Work Step by Step?
The process for making and responding to a CPR 18 request follows Practice Direction 18 and CPR Part 18:
- The requesting party drafts focused questions addressing unclear points in the statements of case.
- The request is served on the other party, stating the date by which a response is expected. The date chosen must allow “a reasonable time” to reply.
- The receiving party evaluates the questions and either answers, objects in writing, or seeks an extension—always within the specified response period.
- If no adequate reply or objection arrives, the requesting party may apply to the court for a formal order.
- The court can then order a response, impose a new deadline, and deal with any costs consequences.
If you need practical guidance on preparing or responding to such a request, our solicitors at Go Legal can help ensure your approach is effective and compliant.
What Should a Valid Part 18 Request Contain?
A compliant Part 18 request should:
- Focus solely on clarifying factual matters in dispute, not seeking evidence or documents.
- Set out questions clearly and concisely.
- Make each question directly relevant to the pleadings.
- Specify a realistic timeframe for response, allowing for the complexity of the issues.
What Happens Before an Application to Court?
Practice Direction 18 requires that, before involving the court, parties must first serve a written request for further information directly on the other side. This step encourages parties to resolve uncertainties or narrow disputes without judicial intervention.
If you receive a CPR 18 request and have concerns about its clarity or timing, our team at Go Legal can review your options and recommend the most protective approach.
How Long Do I Have to Respond to a CPR 18 Request?
There is no set number of days to reply in the Civil Procedure Rules. Instead, Practice Direction 18 provides that the written request must specify a date for response which “must allow the second party a reasonable time to respond.” What is reasonable depends on:
- The number and complexity of the questions.
- The nature of the issues in dispute.
- Any prior negotiations or relevant urgency in the proceedings.
If the dispute reaches a court application, the judge can impose a fixed, binding deadline. Until then, parties are expected to agree or negotiate response times sensibly.
The Difference Between a Written Request and a Court-Ordered Deadline
- Written Request Stage: The deadline is specified by the requesting party but must be reasonable.
- Court-Ordered Deadline: If the court is asked to intervene, the judge will set a strict deadline. This is mandatory and must be observed.
A deadline in a written request can be renegotiated by agreement between the parties. Once a court date is set, it cannot be changed without the court’s permission.
What if the Request Gives Too Short a Deadline?
If a CPR 18 request gives you too little time to answer, Practice Direction 18 allows you to object or seek more time by responding in writing before the expiry of the original deadline.
Quick, written objection or negotiation protects your interests and maximises your credibility before the court.
What to Do If You Cannot Respond in Time or Wish to Object
If you are unable to respond fully in time, or believe the request is improper, Practice Direction 18 requires you to notify the other party in writing, setting out reasons why you cannot comply or why you object, before the original deadline expires.
- Decide whether you can give full answers by the date specified.
- If not, explain in writing to the requesting party, within the stated time, either your objections or need for more time.
- Always keep written records of your communication.
How to Object to a CPR 18 Request or Specific Questions
You may object to some or all questions if they are irrelevant, too broad, or disproportionate. Objections must be:
- Set out in writing.
- Sent to the requesting party within the period for reply.
- Supported by reasons, ideally tied to the scope of the issues in dispute.
If you are unsure about whether to object or how to present your response, our specialist lawyers at Go Legal can provide prompt, practical advice.
What Happens If You Ignore a CPR 18 Request or Respond Late?
If you fail to respond, object, or seek more time within the period set by the request, the requesting party may apply to the court for a formal order compelling an answer. The court has the power to:
- Order you to provide further information, setting a new deadline.
- Make orders as to legal costs against you if your conduct is judged unreasonable.
- Take a dim view of your general conduct, which could have strategic consequences.
Step-by-Step: If a Dispute Reaches a Court Application
- The requesting party applies to court under CPR 18.
- The court considers if further information is necessary to resolve disputes.
- If so, the court orders a response, with a formal deadline.
- Failure to comply with the court’s decision may result in costs or further sanctions.
What Laws and Deadlines Apply to CPR 18 Requests?
The legal framework for CPR 18 requests is set by:
- CPR Part 18: Grants the power for the court to order clarification of disputed matters or additional information at any stage of proceedings.
- Practice Direction 18: Sets out that written requests for further information must specify a response date, which gives the recipient a “reasonable time” to reply.
There is no fixed period for response in the rules. The reality is case-specific: complexity, urgency, and professional courtesy all play a role.
Missing deadlines or failing to raise timely objections increases the chance of a court-imposed order and a risk that you will have to pay legal costs.
How to Draft and Respond to a CPR 18 Request: Practical Tips and Common Mistakes
Successfully managing CPR 18 requests requires clarity, strategy, and diligence at every step.
Common Errors When Drafting Requests or Replies
- Asking over-broad or irrelevant questions.
- Requiring a response faster than is reasonable.
- Conflating requests for clarification with evidence or disclosure demands.
- Replying with vague or incomplete answers.
Step-by-Step Guidance for Both Requesters and Respondents
For the requesting party:
- Identify real areas of ambiguity or dispute in the pleadings.
- Draft specific, relevant questions tied to those areas.
- Choose a fair and workable reply period.
- Be open to reasonable negotiation if the other side requests more time.
For the responding party:
- Assess whether you can respond meaningfully in the stated timeframe.
- Where time is short or questions are unjustified, raise these points in writing promptly.
- Provide full, relevant answers to questions that are proper.
- If unclear, seek legal advice to avoid accidental non-compliance.
How to Minimise Risk and Protect Your Position
- Communicate all requests, responses, objections, or extension requests in writing.
- Never allow a deadline to lapse in silence. Keep all correspondence.
- Early legal advice maximises your ability to defend costs or procedural applications.
Our team at Go Legal can deliver tailored support with every aspect of the CPR 18 process, from drafting clear requests to handling complex objections.
Our Winning Approach to CPR 18 Requests for Further Information
Our solicitors at Go Legal provide experienced support for Part 18 requests in commercial disputes, professional liability, and business litigation across England and Wales.
- We advise whether and how to pursue a Part 18 request, or how to resist an improper one.
- Our team drafts precise, proportionate questions and robust responses, always with an eye to court rules and practical risk.
- We guide you through negotiations over deadlines, objections, and strategic responses.
- Every step is explained in plain English, so you can make confident, informed decisions.
If you require a step-wise plan or need a second opinion on a CPR 18 dispute, speak to our team for practical, commercial guidance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a set time limit to reply to a CPR 18 request in England and Wales?
No. The Civil Procedure Rules do not state a fixed deadline. The requesting party must allow a “reasonable time” for the recipient to reply.
Can I refuse to answer a question in a CPR 18 request?
Yes. If the question is irrelevant, disproportionate, or improper, you can object in writing within the time allowed.
What counts as a “reasonable time” for a response?
“Reasonable time” is not defined numerically. It depends on the dispute’s complexity, the number of questions, and practical context.
What should I do if the request is too broad or irrelevant?
Respond in writing before the deadline, identifying which questions are improper and your reasons for objecting.
What happens if I need more time to reply?
Notify the other side in writing, before your deadline expires, setting out realistic reasons and proposing an extension.
Does my response to a CPR 18 request need a statement of truth?
Verified sources do not confirm this. It is best to take up-to-date advice from our team before responding, to ensure you meet all procedural requirements.
Can costs be ordered against me if I ignore a Part 18 request?
Yes. If the matter goes to court due to non-response, you may be ordered to pay costs if your conduct is found unreasonable.
How do I draft a clear and effective CPR 18 request?
Target each question at specific areas of factual ambiguity in the pleadings. Avoid asking for documents or evidence and select a realistic reply deadline.
Can I make a Part 18 request before preparing my full defence or claim?
Part 18 requests are usually made after pleadings are served, as they aim to clarify disputed allegations already in issue.
When will the court refuse to make a Part 18 order?
The court will decline unnecessary, irrelevant, or disproportionate requests, only making orders where extra information is needed for fair case management.
Speak to a CPR 18 Solicitor Today
Our solicitors provide telephone, video, and in-person consultations to help you handle Part 18 requests at every stage. Whether you need to draft precise questions, formulate a robust reply, or challenge an unfair demand, we offer clear advice and commercial strategy.
