What is a key requirement of a Part 36 offer?

• A. It must be delivered orally.
• B. It must be in writing.
• C. It must be posted to the opposing party.
• D. It must be filed with the court within 7 days.

Answer: (B)

Part 36 offers are formal settlement offers under the CPR, and the key requirement is that the offer must be in writing. The written form provides a clear record of the terms, who is making the offer, and the deadline for acceptance, which is essential for the Part 36 cost consequences to apply if the trial outcome is more favourable than the offer. An oral offer does not qualify as a Part 36 offer, so it cannot trigger those costs rules. There is no mandatory posting to the opposing party, and filing with the court within seven days is not required for the offer itself; the important step is the proper service of a written offer.