Before you start your claim guide

How to prepare a small claim.

In the UK, a small claim refers to a legal case involving a relatively low amount of money, which is typically dealt with in the Small Claims Court, part of the County Court system.

Small claims are for disputes where the amount of money being claimed is £10,000 or less (or £1,000 or less for personal injury cases).

Small claims are designed to be simpler and quicker to resolve than larger, more complex cases, and they allow individuals to represent themselves without necessarily needing a solicitor.

Check if your case qualifies as a small claim

Small claims in the UK are typically for disputes involving amounts up to £10,000. If your claim is within this limit, it is likely eligible for a small claim. For personal injury claims, the limit is £1,000.

Try to resolve the issue outside of court

Before going to court, try to resolve the matter directly with the other party. This could involve:

Negotiating or mediation
Sending a letter before action (a formal letter requesting the issue be resolved, giving a final chance to settle before legal action)

Gather evidence

For your case to be successful, you’ll need to present strong evidence. This can include:

Contracts, agreements, or invoices
Emails, texts, or written communications
Receipts, photographs, or other documents
Witness statements (if applicable)

Complete the claim form (Form N1)

You can make a claim by completing the N1 Claim Form. This form can be downloaded from the gov.uk website or obtained at your local county court. You will need to include:

Your details (name and address)
The defendant's details (name and address)
A brief explanation of your claim
The amount of money you are claiming
Any evidence supporting your case

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