Piepkorn v Hockley

This matter concerned an application by Ms Piepkorn for special leave to appeal to the High Court of Australia, and an application by the respondent, Mr Hockley, to strike out Ms Piepkorn's application. Ms Piepkorn appeared in person, while Mr Hockley was represented by counsel.

The central legal issue before the High Court was whether Ms Piepkorn's application for special leave to appeal should be struck out. This application to strike out was based on grounds that were not clearly articulated in the notice of motion, but which counsel for the respondent indicated related to procedural matters and the conduct of the appeal. Ms Piepkorn also raised issues concerning the Supreme Court's refusal to take action against the trial judge and alleged misrepresentation by the respondent's solicitors.

The High Court indicated that it would hear the respondent's opposition to the grant of special leave rather than proceeding with the application to strike out in the first instance. This approach was considered by the Court to be a more efficient way to advance the process, given the presence of both parties. The Court noted that the supporting affidavits for the strike-out application had not been formally filed, but acknowledged that it had seen them and that Ms Piepkorn was present.

The Court did not make final orders at this stage of the proceedings, as it was in the process of determining how best to hear the arguments presented.