File a Small Claims Case
Step-by-step guide · 10 min read
Check your claim is eligible
The Small Claims Court handles disputes worth up to €2,000. It covers:
- Faulty goods or poor services
- Minor damage to property
- Unreturned rent deposits
- Breach of contract (consumer claims)
Not suitable for:
Debt collection, personal injury, defamation, or claims against the State. For financial services disputes, the FSPOis usually the better route — it's free and handles unlimited claim amounts.
Gather what you'll need
What you'll need
- Full name and address of the person or business you're claiming against
- A clear description of your complaint
- Evidence: receipts, photos, emails, contracts, quotes for repairs
- The amount you're claiming (max €2,000)
- Filing fee of €25 (payable online by card)
- A myGovID account (for online filing)
Try to resolve it directly first
Before filing, you should contact the business in writing to give them a chance to resolve the issue. This shows the court you acted reasonably.
- Send a formal letter or email setting out the problem
- State what resolution you want and give a reasonable deadline (14 days)
- Keep a copy of everything you send and receive
Tip: Many businesses will settle at this stage to avoid the hassle and cost of a court hearing. Always try this first.
File your claim online at courts.ie
Go to csol.ie(Courts Service Online) and log in with your myGovID. Navigate to the Small Claims section and select “Make a Claim.”
- Select your local District Court area
- Enter the respondent's (business/person) full name and address
- Describe your claim clearly and concisely
- State the amount claimed
- Upload supporting documents
You can also file in person at your local District Court office if you prefer.
Pay the EUR 25 filing fee
The fee is €25 and is payable online by debit or credit card. This fee is non-refundable, but if you win your case the respondent may be ordered to reimburse it. If you file in person, you can pay at the court office.
Wait for the respondent's reply
The Courts Service sends your claim to the respondent, who has 15 days to respond. Three things can happen:
- They agree to pay— the claim is settled and you receive your money. Case closed.
- They dispute the claim— the case proceeds to a hearing.
- They don't respond— you can apply for a default judgment in your favour.
Attend mediation (if offered)
If the claim is disputed, a registrar will first try to settle the matter without a hearing. They may contact both parties by phone or arrange an informal negotiation.
Be open to reasonable settlement offers.A quick resolution saves time and stress for everyone. But don't accept less than you're owed just to avoid the hearing.
Prepare for the hearing
If the case goes to a hearing:
- Bring all your evidence: receipts, photos, emails, the original complaint letter
- Have 3 copies of everything (one for you, one for the judge, one for the respondent)
- Write out your key points — the judge will ask you to explain your case
- Bring any witnesses who can support your claim
- Dress appropriately and arrive early
Tip: Small Claims hearings are informal. There are no wigs or gowns. The judge will guide you through the process. You do not need a solicitor.
The hearing and decision
The hearing takes place in your local District Court. Both sides present their case and the judge makes a decision, usually on the day.
- You present your case first — explain what happened and what you want
- The respondent then gives their side
- The judge may ask questions of both parties
- The judge gives a decision — this is legally binding
Enforcing the decision
If you win and the respondent does not pay voluntarily, you can enforce the judgment through the Courts Service. Options include:
- Execution Order — a sheriff seizes goods to the value of the debt
- Instalment Order — the respondent pays in instalments
- Judgment Mortgage — register the debt against their property
There are additional court fees for enforcement, but they are added to the amount owed.
Small Claims vs FSPO
For financial services disputes (banks, insurers, lenders), the FSPO is usually the better option. It's free to use, handles unlimited claim amounts, and its decisions are legally binding. The Small Claims Court is best for consumer goods and services, rent deposits, and non-financial disputes under €2,000.
Need help with your specific case?
Our guides cover the process — but every case is different. If you want someone to review your situation and tell you exactly what to do next, we can help.
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