Leelasena vs Beatrice Mary – CA 432/1998-1998

The case between K.P. Leelasena (Plaintiff) and T.A. Beatrice Mary (Defendant) addressed the propriety of setting aside an ex-parte judgment entered against the Defendant following her absence. The core issue concerned whether the District Judge adhered to the requirements of civil procedure and the principles of natural justice, particularly in relation to evidence, proper inquiry, and the rights of parties when vacating an ex-parte judgment. It was held that the District Court’s procedure—setting aside the ex-parte judgment and allowing the Defendant to file answer without completing witness re-examination or proper closure of proceedings—was flawed and contrary to the Civil Procedure Code and Evidence Ordinance. The ruling reaffirmed the necessity for compliance with procedural fairness