The Master of Rolls has set out new anticipated appeal hearing dates in the Court of Appeal (Civil Division). The changes will apply to all new cases filed after 31 July 2015. This reflects the 67% increase in appeals since 2003 with only one extra appeal judge.
In particular, with respect to Final Orders made in the High Court and County Court, from the date of an Appellant’s Notice issued in the Court of Appeal the date of an appeal hearing will be the following:
If Permission to Appeal granted in lower Court – 11 months
If Permission to Appeal granted in Court of Appeal on paper – 15 Months
If Permission to Appeal granted in Court of Appeal at oral hearing – 19 Months
The Master of Rolls has stressed the Court will continue to make sure urgent matters are expedited and that the Court will strive to ensure that appeals are generally heard before the relevant hearing date.