Case working needs to be managed, both by the case-worker and by
the appropriate manager. The aim of case management should be to
ensure that every case is settled satisfactorily at the earliest
possible stage.
If a case is not clearly heading towards a satisfactory
negotiated settlement, the case-owner should ensure that the case
is worth pursuit and that means considering whether the case is
suitable for litigation, should negotiations fail.
Consideration of such issues should not be left until the
elapse of a certain period of time but at the earliest appropriate
stage during the life of a case. There is no value in repeating
arguments to those who refuse to listen or hoping that something
will turn up.
Litigation is not something to be considered only when all
else has failed. Delay in commencing litigation does not signal our
determination to litigate if we fail to reach a negotiated
settlement. Early preparation for litigation can assist the
negotiations and it enables any litigation to be carried out more
efficiently.
| Additional Guidance: SVM150000 |
