ABSTRACT

The small claims track is meant for straightforward claims which do not require substantial preparation and are suitable for a relatively informal hearing. The small claims track procedure is intended to be accessible to litigants in person. In accordance with the principle of proportionality,36 as the value of the claims is not more than £5,000, it is intended that claims allocated to the small claims track will not incur substantial legal costs and the ‘no costs’ rule is a deterrent to parties obtaining legal representation to bring their action.