What is a Hadkinson Order?

Patrick Steel examines Hadkinson Orders, what they are used for and why they are so useful.

Download counsel’s article below, where Patrick explains that a Hadkinson Order is a case management order of last resort which is available in specific circumstances when a party is in contempt. Through a Hadkinson Order the Court has discretion to refuse to hear a party or to impose conditions with which they must comply in order to be heard. It is therefore, a highly draconian order and is exercised with a great degree of caution.

Nonetheless, it is a flexible order applicable to a range of circumstances particularly within financial remedy proceedings and in proceedings under schedule 1 of the Children Act. The order can be made at any stage of proceedings, at first instance and on appeal.

Download Patrick’s commentarty here.