Vexatious Litigation & Procedural Abuse – Risks, Remedies & Restraint Orders

Vexatious litigation continues to present evolving challenges for courts and practitioners alike. Beyond draining judicial resources, it can disrupt proceedings, escalate costs, and expose clients and legal representatives to unnecessary legal, financial and reputational risk. 

For lawyers, effectively identifying and responding to vexatious conduct, whether arising from self-represented individuals or sophisticated litigants, demands strategic judgment, procedural precision and a clear understanding of available safeguards. 

This seminar will cover: 

• Distinguishing unmeritorious claims from vexatious proceedings – Applying common law principles and the Vexatious Proceedings Act 2014 (Vic).  
• Recognising procedural abuse – Identifying excessive interlocutory applications, collateral challenges and misuse of appellate processes.  
• Summary dismissal and security for costs – Strategic use in managing unmeritorious or abusive claims. 
• Litigation restraint orders – When and how to seek them effectively.  
• Managing reputational and client risk – Responding to persistent or abusive litigants. 
• Balancing access to justice and judicial integrity. 
• Cases of significance included.