High Court injunction: what it is, how it works and why it matters

If you ever see a headline about a "High Court injunction" you might wonder what’s really happening. In plain terms, an injunction is a court order that tells someone to do something or stop doing something. When the order comes from the High Court, it carries serious weight because the High Court deals with the biggest and most complex cases in England and Wales.

When do people apply for a High Court injunction?

Businesses often seek an injunction to protect trade secrets, stop a competitor from copying a product, or halt an activity that could cause immediate damage. Celebrities use them to stop the press from publishing private details. Even ordinary folks can apply if they need to stop a neighbour from building a structure that breaches planning rules. The key factor is urgency – the court will only grant one if waiting for a full trial would cause irreparable harm.

The steps to get an injunction

First, you file an application called an "originating summons" or a "petition". You’ll need to explain why you need the injunction, what you want the court to order, and provide evidence that you’d suffer serious loss without it. Next, the court may hold a quick hearing, sometimes called an "ex parte" hearing, where only you are present. If the judge believes the claim is strong and the risk of damage is high, they’ll issue a temporary injunction right away.

A temporary injunction lasts until a full hearing, usually within a few weeks. At that hearing, both sides present their arguments. The judge then decides whether to make the injunction "interim" (lasting until the case finishes) or "permanent" (the final order). If you lose, you might have to pay the other side’s legal costs, so it’s worth weighing the chances of success before you apply.

Enforcing the order is straightforward: if the other party breaches it, you can go back to the High Court and ask for contempt proceedings. The court can impose fines, seize assets, or even jail time for the breaching party. That deterrent power is why a High Court injunction is such a strong tool.

One practical tip: keep detailed records of the harm you’re trying to prevent. Emails, photos, invoices – anything that shows the damage is real and immediate – will make your case stronger. Also, consider whether a "standard" injunction (which applies to everyone) or a "specific" injunction (targeted at a particular person) is more suitable for your situation.

In summary, a High Court injunction is a fast‑track legal remedy that can stop bad actions before they cause lasting damage. Knowing when to use it, how to apply, and what happens if it’s broken can save you time, money, and stress. If you think you need one, talk to a solicitor early – they’ll help you craft a solid application and weigh the risks.