Settling issues

In English practice. Arranging or determining the form of the issues in a cause. "Where, in any action, it appears to the judge that the statement of claim or defense or reply does not sufficiently disclose the issues of fact between the parties, he may direct the parties to prepare issues ; and such issues shall, if the parties differ, be settled by the judge."

Judicature Act 1875, schedule, art. 19.