SQE 1 – Dispute Resolution: Commencing Proceedings Practice Test

The key idea is that, once a claim form is issued, there is a strict four-month window to serve it on every defendant. This four-month deadline helps ensure proceedings move promptly and that defendants are notified in a timely way. The countdown starts from the issue date, and service must be completed using one of the approved methods under the Civil Procedure Rules. If service isn’t completed within four months, the claimant typically must seek the court’s permission to extend the time for service; without an extension, the claim form can be struck out for lack of proper service. The other durations listed don’t reflect the standard rule for serving a claim form after issue.