Settling a civil case

Civil disputes can be settled by an agreement between the parties involved. If the parties can reach a settlement there is no need for a court hearing.

Where parties agree on a settlement, they should put their agreement in writing and each party should sign the agreement. This type of agreement is called 'terms of settlement' or 'consent orders'.

Formalising a consent order

The agreement is then presented to the court and a judicial officer will consider if the agreement is appropriate and formalise it. The vast majority of civil cases are settled without a court hearing.

Many civil matters are settled during the course of a court hearing. Others are settled after judgment and when an appeal has been filed.