Sub-section I: Withdrawal of the claim at first instance.

The claimant may, in any matter, withdraw his claim with a view to terminating the proceedings.

The discontinuance is perfected only by the defendant’s acceptance. However, acceptance is not necessary if the defendant has not presented any defence on the merits or plea of inadmissibility at the time the plaintiff withdraws.

The judge shall declare the withdrawal perfect if the defendant’s non-acceptance is not based on any legitimate reason.

Withdrawal is express or implied; the same applies to acceptance.

Withdrawal of proceedings does not entail renunciation of the action, but only extinction of the proceedings.

Withdrawal entails, unless otherwise agreed, submission to pay the costs of the extinguished proceedings.