Comparitie
Appearance
A comparitie is a hearing at which the parties and their counsel appear before the court to make oral submissions on the case and to attempt to reach a settlement.
In Dutch civil procedure law, a comparitie is a hearing ordered by the court after the close of written pleadings. The parties may elaborate on their respective positions, the court may put questions to them, and an attempt is made to reach an amicable settlement.
The comparitie serves an important function, as it may shorten the proceedings and avoid the need for costly and protracted further litigation. It also enables the court to gain a clearer understanding of the facts and the interests of the parties.
In practice, the comparitie is commonly held before judgment is rendered, and attendance is compulsory unless the court grants an exemption.
“At the hearing, the parties succeeded in reaching a settlement under the judge's direction.”
Related terms
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