"An overview of the things practitioners must know whilst using the system."

Overview

The Damages Claims Portal (DCP) has evolved over the past five years into a comprehensive digital system capable of managing unspecified damages claims from issue through to trial. Now fully embedded within civil procedure, and operating alongside Practice Direction 51ZB (PD51ZB), the DCP is an essential tool for modern litigation practitioners.

This session provides a practical, end-to-end overview of the DCP, focusing on the key stages of a claim and the procedural requirements practitioners must understand to use the system effectively. Rather than a detailed technical walkthrough, the session highlights the critical rules, common pitfalls, and best practices associated with each stage of the process.

Attendees will gain a clear understanding of how to navigate the portal in compliance with the Civil Procedure Rules (CPR) and PD51ZB, ensuring claims are progressed efficiently and without procedural error. The session is suitable for practitioners at all levels seeking to build confidence and competence in using the DCP.

Learning Objectives

By the end of this session, participants will be able to:

• Understand the scope and function of the DCP
  • Recognise which claims fall within the portal and how it fits within the wider civil justice system.
     
• Prepare effectively for issuing a claim
  • Identify key pre-issue considerations, including required information, documentation, and procedural compliance.
     
• Navigate the claim lifecycle within the DCP
  • Demonstrate familiarity with each stage of the process, including:
    • Issuing a claim
    • Service requirements
    • Completing and responding to Directions Questionnaires
    • Making and responding to applications
    • Managing settlement and discontinuance
       
• Apply PD51ZB and CPR requirements in practice
  • Understand how procedural rules interact with the portal and ensure compliance at each stage.
     
• Avoid common errors and inefficiencies
  • Recognise frequent mistakes and adopt practical strategies to use the system safely and effectively.
     
• Build confidence in digital case management
  • Develop the foundational knowledge needed to handle claims within the DCP with accuracy and efficiency.