The work of the Commercial Court
The Commercial Court specialises in the determination of commercial disputes, the majority of which have an international element. Approximately 75% of the Commercial Court’s work is international (having at least one overseas party) and that has been the case for at least the last 20 years. Parties (whether domestic or foreign; corporate or individuals) choose to commence their disputes in the Commercial Court because of its expertise and proven track record in the efficient resolution of international business disputes, however complex.
Profile of the Court’s work
The Court has for many years been a preferred forum for the determination of a wide range of international business disputes. Find out more about the types of cases heard by the Commercial and Admiralty Courts and the numbers of cases heard.
Digital Disputes
The Commercial Court, along with the other courts of the Business and Property Courts, continues to be at the forefront of developing commercial litigation including a range of disputes involving digital assets and digitalised transaction documents, including disputes relating to smart contracts, crypto currency, NFTs and intellectual property rights in digital assets.
Active case management
The Commercial Court has played a central role in developing urgent interim relief and expedited formats for trial in commercial proceedings. Find out more about this, and the Court’s approach to test and grouped cases, such as the COVID-19 business interruption litigation.
Supporting arbitration
London is one of the world’s leading centres for international arbitration. A significant part of the business of the Commercial Court involves arbitration matters (approximately 25% of claims issued in the Commercial Court are arbitration claims). Find out more about the Court’s arbitration related work supporting London as a seat of arbitration.
English Law and jurisdiction
The expertise of the Commercial Court, and the commerce-friendly principles of commercial law developed through the Court, have played a significant part in making English law the preferred choice of law for a vast range of commercial disputes, even where those transacting had no connection with this jurisdiction. Find out more about the impact of English Law contracts, and the Court’s role in deciding foreign law issues and principles applicable to international business standard forms used in banking, commodities and other business areas.