ABSTRACT

This chapter explains how the courts will, at the outset of a claim, assist a plaintiff in preserving property that is claimed in or is relevant to the action, and prevent a defendant from dissipating his assets or otherwise taking steps that would defeat the purpose of the action. It describes the special features of the Mareva injunction (a “Mareva”) and the Anton Piller order (an “Anton Piller”). Marevas and Anton Pillers are still relatively new weapons in the legal armoury. Both have been considerably refined over the past few years and recently the courts have laid down new directions governing their operation and future development. Anton Pillers are most frequently used in the context of cases concerning the infringement of copyright and trademarks, the misuse of confidential information or fraud. Anton Pillers may not always be the best remedy for a plaintiff.