Court bundle (or bundle)

A court bundle, also known as a bundle, is one or more lever-arch folders containing all of the documents related to the case. It might contain evidence, case paperwork (e.g. application forms), statements, expert reports, etc.

It is usually prepared in advance for the final hearing but the judge may ask for one before a hearing in which evidence will be heard. This is so all parties and the judge have copies of the written statements available to refer to.

Usually, it is the applicant’s responsibility to prepare the bundle, agree it with the respondent party and make copies for the respondent and the judge.

There are strict guidelines on how to construct a court bundle. They are outlined in a Court Bundle Practice Direction.

• When must it be prepared?

  A court bundle must be prepared for any hearing when the judge asks for one.

  The party who is responsible for preparing the bundle should bring it to the court hearings when oral evidence is going to be heard so that it is available for use by the witnesses.

• When should the bundle be given to the court and others?

  It is important to provide the bundle in good time to the court and the other party. The judge will usually tell you when the bundle should be provided. If in doubt, check with the court office, by email in the first instance – see NICTS contact details or Court office emails.

• Delivering or receiving the bundle

  Check, by email in the first instance, with the relevant court office how to deliver the bundle or when to expect to receive it. It will also have to be provided to the other party.

• Bring the bundle to court

  Where your hearing is in the court building rather than online, the party who is responsible for preparing the bundle should bring it to the court hearings when oral evidence is going to be heard so that it is available for use by the witnesses.

  They are also responsible for ensuring the witness bundle is collected.