Respond to a court claim for money
Going to a court hearing
You might have to give more information at a hearing if your offer is rejected or if mediation is unsuccessful.
If there’s a hearing, you can:
- represent yourself
- pay for a barrister or solicitor to represent you
- ask someone to advise you in court - they do not have to be a lawyer
- ask someone to speak on your behalf - you might need to get the court’s permission
Your hearing can be held in the judge’s room or a courtroom in a county court if the claim is for less than £10,000. There might be a more formal hearing if the claim is for more.
After the hearing
You’ll get a decision on the day of the hearing. The court will also send you a copy of the decision by post.
Appeal the decision
You can ask to appeal the decision if you think the judge made a mistake during the hearing. You must ask within 21 days of the date the decision was made.
Find out which court or tribunal to appeal to.
Contact Citizens Advice to get advice on appealing.