The Advocate DiaryA cause list is the court's schedule of the matters it will take up on a given day. Reading one properly is a basic skill, and small misreadings can cost you a matter. Formats differ between courts, so always follow your own court's practice as well as this general guide.
The main parts of a cause list
- Court number or hall: where the matter will be heard. Check this every day, as benches and rooms can change.
- Coram: the judge or judges sitting in that court.
- Item or serial number: your matter's place on the board. It is a guide to its order, not an appointed time.
- Case number and parties: make sure both match your file, as similar numbers can appear in the same list.
- Advocates' names: the counsel recorded for each side.
- Stage or purpose: what the matter is listed for.
Common stages
- Admission or fresh: a new matter, to be considered for admission or notice.
- After notice: the matter returns after notice has been issued to the other side.
- Evidence: for recording evidence in a trial.
- Arguments: for hearing the parties' submissions.
- For orders or judgment: the court is to pronounce its decision.
Types of list
- Daily cause list: the day's matters, and the one to rely on for the day.
- Weekly or advance list: an early indication of what may be listed.
- Supplementary list: extra matters added after the main list. These are easy to miss.
Habits that prevent missed matters
- Check the list the evening before and again on the morning of the hearing.
- Check for supplementary lists and notices about judges' leave or changes of bench.
- Search by your name and by each case number, since recording errors do happen.
- Follow the display board in court, and keep a junior or clerk watching when you have matters in two courts.
Keep your own daily list
The Advocate Diary brings your listed matters into a daily agenda, with daily and weekly reminders. Use it to plan your day, and confirm final listings with the court's official cause list.
Related app features
This article is for general informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Laws, rules and court procedures change, and vary between courts and states. Verify against current official sources and applicable professional guidance.