What is the role of practice directions in DR commence?

• A. They govern appellate review.
• B. They give additional start-up rules and guidance for proceedings.
• C. They set the court's procedural calendar.
• D. They determine evidentiary standards.

Answer: (B)

Practice directions in DR commence provide practical, supplementary rules that guide the start and conduct of a dispute-resolution process. They set out the additional steps, forms, service requirements, time limits, and case-management guidance you need at the outset, helping everyone know exactly what to do and when. This makes the initiation and early stages smoother and faster, reducing ambiguity and delays. They are not about appellate review, nor do they control the entire court calendar or dictate evidentiary standards, which are covered by separate rules and authorities. So, their role is to supply extra start-up rules and practical guidance for proceedings.