Word limit when using the MCOL to file the defence

B789

After we discussed this some time back, I wrote to the CCBC to ask for clarification about the character/word limit of submitting a defence using the MCOL form. This was because the MCOL user guide states (for claimants):

The POC are restricted to 24 lines of 45 characters and a total of 1,080 characters. If you type more than this the last part of your text will not appear on the claim. Please be aware that the website will only accept the following punctuation; full stop, comma, pound signs.

However, there is no such guidance for defendants who may want or accidentally use the defence box. Some people were saying that there is a different limit for the defence. Most defence templates we use here are very long when compared to the usually sparse POC that we see.

Anyway, I have finally had a response which finally answered my question after having had to bat it back to them several times and insist they refer my question to their IT department. This is the response:

The word limits for particulars of claim and defence are the same.

Please note: you cannot attach documents or pictures as evidence.

You need to put the main defence points but can refer to other separate documents/exhibits.

Any extra information can then be filed later, if the case proceeds to a Hearing date.

So, according to the CCBC, anyone posting a Defence using the MCOL defence box will have everything after the first 1,080 characters truncated. The 1,080 characters include full stops, commas and each space between a word.

Interestingly the final bit of info about extra information being filed later should be queried. The response email I received was signed by a member of the Correspondence Team so may not be fully aware of the ability to add ti a defence once submitted, at least without incurring a fee.

Le_Kirk

Maybe someone from their team will pay the £108 (I think) fee to amend a defence!