The book "Principles of Civil Procedure in New South Wales" by Dorne Boniface, Miiko Kumar, and Michael Legg is a comprehensive guide to the civil procedure in New South Wales, Australia. Here is a detailed overview of the book:

Key Themes

1. Civil Justice System: The book provides a scholarly yet accessible account of the New South Wales civil justice system, covering key procedures from the initiation of proceedings to the enforcement of judgments.
2. Principled and Practical Approach: It offers both a principled and practical approach to understanding civil procedure, making it suitable for both novice students and experienced practitioners.
3. Relevant Provisions: The text references relevant provisions of the Civil Procedure Act 2005 (NSW), the Uniform Civil Procedure Rules 2005 (NSW), the Evidence Act 1995 (NSW), and the Legal Profession Uniform Law, providing a comprehensive legal framework.
4. Case Management and Ethical Requirements: It deals with fundamental principles of the civil justice system, including open justice, fair trial, case management, and lawyers’ ethical requirements.
5. Advanced Topics: The book covers advanced or practical areas such as interim preservation orders, service overseas, class actions, commercial arbitration, electronic discovery, the preparation of witnesses, and expert evidence.

Plot Summary

The book is structured to guide readers through the lifecycle of litigation in New South Wales. It begins with an overview of the civil justice system and then delves into specific procedures such as pleadings, service, discovery, and evidence. The text also includes illustrative cases and extracts to enhance understanding. It aims to take readers from basic principles to more advanced topics, making it a valuable resource for both students and practitioners.

Critical Reception

While specific reviews are not provided in the sources, the book's reputation can be inferred from its use as a teaching resource and its comprehensive coverage of civil procedure in New South Wales. The authors, who have extensive experience in teaching and practicing law in New South Wales, have likely contributed to the book's credibility and practicality.

Editions

The book has undergone revisions, with the most recent edition being titled "Civil Procedure in New South Wales" (3rd ed.), which has expanded its scope to include more detailed material and practical applications.

In summary, "Principles of Civil Procedure in New South Wales" by Dorne Boniface, Miiko Kumar, and Michael Legg is a seminal work that provides a thorough understanding of the civil procedure in New South Wales. Its comprehensive coverage, practical approach, and inclusion of advanced topics make it an essential resource for both students and practitioners in the field.