A search order is the most draconian order that the English civil court can make. Because of this an independent solicitor must be appointed by the court to explain the search order to the respondent, supervise the search, consider whether disputed documents can be provided to the claimant’s solicitors and report to the court on the execution of the search.
At Kingsley Napley we have substantial experience of obtaining, executing and supervising search orders at commercial and residential premises. At short notice we can assemble teams to attend at multiple sites to act as supervising solicitors.
Our experience in obtaining and challenging all types of injunctions means that when executing/supervising a search order we are able to anticipate issues which may arise and can deal with those issues practically and sensibly.
We also have considerable experience of acting for the SRA over a number of years effecting Intervention Orders over firms of solicitors in London and the South East which require the same practical skills and need for care and tact.
We understand the sensitivities involved in the execution of such an intrusive order, particularly when the search is of a residential property. We aim to establish a rapport with the respondent(s) in order to avoid, and where necessary defuse, antagonistic situations. We also understand the unique issues which arise when females are respondents to search orders and where females or children are present at a search site.