This Practice Note provides guidance on the timing for service of the Claim form. The claim form must be served within the Validity period ie between the date of issue of the claim form and the deadline set out either in CPR 7 or in a specific statute. The Practice Note explains the validity period and then sets out how to determine both the date of issue and the deadline for service. The deadlines are different depending on whether serving the claim form in England or Wales or in another jurisdiction. The Practice Note also provides example scenarios when determining the date of issue of the claim form.

A key consideration when determining the time period for service of the claim form is that the particulars of claim, while they do not need to be served with the claim form, must also be served within the validity period for the claim form (CPR 7.4). The rationale being that the defendant is entitled to know the full extent of the claim being brought against