Sue in UK: Simple Guide to Filing Your Claim

Thinking about taking someone to court in the UK? It can feel scary, but the process is pretty straightforward once you know the basics. Whether you’re chasing unpaid rent, a faulty product, or a breach of contract, these steps will help you get started without wasting time.

1. Decide Where to File Your Claim

The first decision is the court level. For most everyday disputes up to £10,000, the County Court (often called the Small Claims Court) is the right place. It’s cheaper, faster, and you don’t need a lawyer in most cases. If your claim exceeds £10,000, you’ll move to the High Court or a specialised division, and costs go up.

Check the amount you’re claiming and the type of dispute. The government website has a handy “Money Claim Online” tool that tells you which court to use.

2. Prepare Your Claim Form

Gather all the facts: contracts, emails, receipts, and any evidence that backs up your story. Write a short, clear statement of what happened, who’s responsible, and how much you want. Keep it factual—no emotional language.

Then fill out the official claim form (Form N1 for County Court). You can do this online at the HM Courts & Tribunals Service portal, or download a paper version. Pay the filing fee, which ranges from £35 for claims under £500 to £455 for claims up to £10,000. If you can’t afford the fee, apply for a “Help with Fees” certificate.

Once submitted, the court will send a copy to the defendant. They have 14 days to respond with an “acknowledgement of service.” If they don’t reply, you can request a judgment by default.

3. What Happens After the Defendant Responds

If the defendant admits they owe you, the court can issue a judgment right away and you can start enforcement. If they dispute the claim, the case moves to a “listing” stage where a judge schedules a hearing.

Before the hearing, you’ll exchange evidence (called “disclosure”). Send the defendant any documents you have, and they’ll do the same. Keep everything organized—dates, amounts, and who said what.

At the hearing, both sides present their case in a simple, question‑and‑answer format. The judge looks at the evidence, not at how eloquent you are. If you’re nervous, consider a brief consultation with a solicitor or a free citizen’s advice service to rehearse your points.

4. Getting Your Money and Enforcing a Judgment

When the judge rules in your favor, they’ll issue a judgment specifying the amount the other side must pay. For small claims, the court can send an “order for payment” directly to the defendant.

If the defendant still doesn’t pay, you have enforcement options: a bailiff visit, a charging order on their property, or a third‑party debt order if they earn through a bank account. Each method has its own cost, but the court can order the loser to cover your legal fees.

Remember, a judgment is only worth as much as you can collect. Sometimes a negotiation after the judgment can get you a quicker, cheaper payment.

Overall, suing in the UK isn’t a mystery. Pick the right court, fill out the claim form accurately, gather solid evidence, and follow the court’s timeline. With a clear plan, you’ll increase your chances of a fast, fair resolution.