The Small Claims procedure is a service provided by District Court offices and is designed to handle consumer or business claims inexpensively without involving a solicitor.
The local District Court Clerk, who is the Small Claims Registrar, processes small claims.
Type of claims dealt with
- a claim for goods or services bought for private use from someone selling them in the course of a business (consumer claims)
- a claim for goods or services bought for business use from someone selling them in the course of a business (business claims)
- a claim for minor damage to property (but excluding personal injuries)
- a claim for the non-return of a rent deposit for certain kinds of rented properties. For example, a holiday home or a room / flat in a premises where the owner also lives
The claim cannot exceed €2,000. The current fee to make a claim is €25.
Where possible, the Registrar will negotiate a settlement without the need for a court hearing. If the matter cannot be settled, the registrar will bring your claim before the District Court (which you will have to attend).
Remember, it is possible your claim will be disputed or a counterclaim made against you.
If the other party admits your claim he/she is required to notify the Registrar's office and make payment. If they do not respond to your claim, the District Court will make an order.
Exclusions and more detailed information, including enforcement procedure, is available on the Citizen’s Information website.
See information on how to apply.