Boyle v MGN Ltd

The trial does not require a prolonged examination of documents or material that cannot conveniently be made with a jury; the material is straightforward and suitable for jury consideration.

Parties: Claimant: Frankie Boyle; Defendant: MGN Ltd
Jurisdiction: England and Wales
Judgment Date: 09 October 2012
Procedural Posture: Civil / Pre Trial Application Ruling
Outcome: Application to vary mode of trial dismissed.
Legal Topics: Libel, Malicious Falsehood, Mode of Trial, Fair Comment, Aggravated Damages

Defamation Media Law Libel Malicious Falsehood Mode of Trial Fair Comment Aggravated Damages

Case Brief

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Parties

Frankie Boyle

Claimant

MGN Ltd

Defendant

Procedural Posture

Civil / Pre Trial Application Ruling

Legal Issues

1 Whether the trial should be conducted without a jury under Senior Courts Act 1981 s.69
2 Whether the case requires prolonged examination of documents or material that cannot be conveniently made with a jury

Ratio Decidendi

The trial does not require a prolonged examination of documents or material that cannot conveniently be made with a jury; the material is straightforward and suitable for jury consideration.

Court Disposition

Application to vary mode of trial dismissed.

Orders

Trial to proceed by judge sitting with a jury.
Reporting of the application prohibited until after conclusion of the trial under Contempt of Court Act s.4(2).