Process

Small claims track

The simplest court procedure for disputes worth £10,000 or less, designed to be used without a lawyer.

Definition

The small claims track is the procedure used in the County Court for most money claims worth £10,000 or less (or £1,000 or less for personal injury and housing disrepair claims). It is designed to be accessible to people without legal representation. The hearing is informal, costs orders are limited (the loser generally pays only a small fixed amount), and the judge plays an active role in helping unrepresented parties present their case.

In practice

Even on the small claims track, you must follow court rules — serve documents on time, comply with directions, and turn up on the hearing date. Missing a hearing almost always leads to judgment against you. Current court fees and the online claims portal are on GOV.UK.

Related terms

Claim A formal request asking a court to order something, such as payment or the return of property. Court fee The amount paid to the court to issue or continue a claim. Limitation period The time the law allows for starting a claim. Once it ends, the claim can usually be defeated. Judgment The court's final decision in a case.