A small claims action is a form of summary cause proceedings
used where the total debt does not exceed £3,000. The
rules governing small claims (Small Claims Rules 2002) are similar
to those for summary proceedings, as are the steps you need to
raise an action.
The small claims procedure is designed to provide a cheap,
simple and speedy means of settling any dispute about the sum due.
As with summary proceedings (for sums over £3,000
and up to £5,000) you will seldom require to appear in
court.
However if the defender wishes to contest the claim, the
court will fix a date for a preliminary hearing. You must attend
this preliminary hearing.
