5.6.4.1 The small claims procedure

The small claims procedure is an informal way of helping people to settle minor disputes without spending a lot of time and money using a lawyer. This procedure is used for claims of less than £10,000 in England and Wales, £5,000 in Scotland and £3,000 in Northern Ireland. The hearing is held in front of a judge in an ordinary room, and people from both sides of the dispute sit around a table. Small claims can also be issued online through Money Claims Online ( www.moneyclaim.gov.uk ).

You can get details about the small claims procedure from your local County Court or Sheriff Court. Details of your local court can be found as follows:

England and Wales: at www.gov.uk Scotland: at www.scotcourts.gov.uk Northern Ireland: at www.courtsni.gov.uk.