Former clients sought to include additional family members as parties in a solicitor’s bill assessment proceeding after the limitation period had expired.
The solicitor moved for a declaration that the additional claimants were barred by the limitation period under the Solicitors Act and the Limitations Act, 2002.
The court held that only one client had requested an assessment within the two‑year limitation period and that the other family members had been advised of the deficiency yet failed to amend the appointment.
No “special circumstances” justified extending the limitation period.
The court granted the solicitor’s motion barring the additional claimants from participating in the assessment proceeding and declined to suspend interest on any overpayment.
