Jurisdiction(s):
United Kingdom

Key definition

Sanctions definition

What does Sanctions mean? Sanctions are the penalties or procedural consequences a court imposes in civil litigation when a party fails to comply with procedural rules, practice directions or court orders. Common sanctions include striking out or dismissing a claim or defence, debarring a party from relying on evidence or experts, costs orders (including indemnity or wasted costs), stays, unless orders with automatic strike-out on non-compliance, and, in serious cases, contempt remedies. In England and Wales, sanctions are imposed under the Civil Procedure Rules (for example CPR r.3.1, r.3.4, r.3.5, r.32.10 and r.3.14). A party may seek relief from sanctions under CPR r.3.9,...

Relief from sanctions under CPR 3.9: guidance on applications, evidence, informal routes, opposing, costs, appeals and key case law (England and Wales)

Published by a LexisNexis Dispute Resolution expert

Practice notes

This Practice Note outlines how to pursue or resist an application for relief from Sanctions under CPR 3.9. It considers the evidence needed both to support and to oppose such applications, the potential Costs consequences, and avenues to appeal where relief is granted or refused. It also includes practical tips and key points to bear in mind when bringing or challenging an application for relief from sanctions...

Making an application for relief from sanctions

An application for relief from sanctions is a request for a court order, so the core procedure is governed by CPR 23 and CPR PD 23A. Guidance on preparing a CPR-compliant application is set out in Practice Note: How to make an application for a court order (CPR 23). You should be familiar with that guidance before issuing any application to the court, as it provides the foundation for all applications under CPR 23 and CPR PD 23A.

The sections that follow identify aspects of the applications process that are specific to relief from sanctions. They are intended to complement, not replace, the general guidance referred to above...

Pre-application

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Web page updated on 21/05/2026

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