The forum (non) conveniens doctrine provides the basis for the discretionary exercise of jurisdiction by English courts in private-international-law disputes.

London’s pre-eminence as a centre for international commercial litigation has led to its frequent deployment in proceedings where parties disagree over where the case should be heard. The doctrine’s significance is not limited to England but extends to many Commonwealth jurisdictions which have embraced it.

By offering a meticulous and critical analysis of relevant historical and contemporary sources in England and elsewhere, this monograph seeks to fill gaps in relevant knowledge of the English forum (non) conveniens doctrine, and challenge certain views concerning its operation that have come to be regarded as representing the orthodoxy.

In this respect, the monograph attempts to refine our understanding of the doctrine’s historical development, evaluate its application in the years following its formal recognition in England, and examine the case for revising it, given the changing nature of international commercial litigation in recent decades.

The monograph’s ultimate objective is to act as an authoritative and comprehensive reference point for those with an interest in the forum (non) conveniens doctrine, in particular, and cross-border private litigation, in general.

Forum (Non) Conveniens in England: Past, Present, and Future is the latest addition to Hart Publishing’s burgeoning Studies in Private International Law Series. It is available now to pre-order and will be published in December 2018. Visit the Hart Publishing website to order a copy or find out more.