Lower formality does not mean no preparation
Small claims,
step by step.
Build a proportionate case that lets the judge see the dispute, the evidence and the result you seek—without making the hearing search for it.
Normally ≤ £10,000Subject to claim type and other exceptions
Court decides allocationValue is not the only factor
Order controlsNever replace directions with a generic checklist
The cycle
Seven controlled stages
Open each stage. The sequence is a working map, not a prediction of what every claim will require.
Define the dispute before proceedings
- Identify the contract, event, duty or promise relied on.
- Separate facts you can prove from assumptions and conclusions.
- Preserve originals and write a neutral chronology.
- Follow the applicable pre-action protocol or the Practice Direction on Pre-Action Conduct.
- Consider limitation urgently; this site does not calculate it.
Claim, response and pleaded case
- Read every page of the claim form and particulars.
- Record the response deadline immediately and verify how it is calculated.
- Answer the case actually pleaded, not every grievance in the history.
- Identify any admission, denial, lack of knowledge and alternative explanation.
- Keep the filed version, submission receipt and proof of service.
Allocation, questionnaire and mediation
- Explain the suitable track, witnesses, expert needs and hearing estimate honestly.
- Keep settlement communications correctly labelled and separate from open correspondence.
- Prepare a short mediation position with only the documents that matter.
- Do not assume mediation pauses a deadline unless the court orders it.
Read and convert the directions order
- Copy every ordered step into a deadline ledger.
- Record who must do what, by when, where and by which service method.
- Standard small-claims directions commonly require relied-on documents at least 14 days before the hearing, but your order may differ.
- Raise ambiguity early; do not silently invent a timetable.
Evidence and witness preparation
- Map each disputed issue to evidence and the opposing evidence.
- Prefer contemporaneous and independent records where available.
- A witness statement should distinguish personal knowledge, information and belief.
- Check the required statement of truth and ensure the filed scan includes the signed page.
- Paginate once, index clearly and test every cross-reference.
Hearing preparation and presentation
- Prepare a one-page issues list and a short chronology.
- Know the exact order and amount you ask the court to make.
- For each point: proposition → supporting document → page → answer to the other side.
- Bring or access the same version served on the court and opponent.
- Listen to the question, answer it first, then explain only what is necessary.
Judgment, payment and closure
- Read the order carefully and note payment and compliance dates.
- Retain bank confirmation, receipt and correspondence proving payment.
- If the other side must confirm receipt, chase it promptly and keep the court informed appropriately.
- Check the official route before enforcement, set-aside or appeal; short deadlines may apply.
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Representation wording matters. A litigant in person speaks for themselves. A McKenzie Friend may provide limited support but does not automatically have rights of audience or a right to conduct litigation; any permission is a matter for the court.