What are particulars of claim?

• A. The defendant's response to the claim.
• B. A judgement draft.
• C. A list of witnesses only.
• D. A separate document served with or after the claim form, setting out material facts and the legal cause of action.

Answer: (D)

Particulars of claim are the pleadings that spell out, in detail, the facts the claimant relies on and the legal basis for the claim. This document is separate from the initial claim form and is served with it or after it, so the defendant can see exactly what is being claimed and on what grounds. It sets out material facts, when they happened, how the breach occurred (if it’s a contract claim, for example), and what remedy is being sought. This level of detail helps the defendant understand the claim and prepare a proper defence.

It isn’t the defendant’s response—that would be a defence. It isn’t a judgement draft, which is a document used later in the case. And it isn’t merely a list of witnesses. The correct option describes the precise purpose and role of the particulars of claim: a separate document that provides the factual and legal basis for the claim.