Small Claims Court - the Hearing Procedures

[hicks86]

Hi guys,

 

I have a small claims court hearing next week - can someone explain to me/provide a document that explains the court hearing procedures? I have never been and a lot of the information on the internet can be overwhelming.

 

I want a rough idea what to expect in order to prepare my document and questions etc.

 

Thanks again

[hicks86]

Hey guys any pointers?

 

Appreciated

[AndyOrch]

Hi hicks

 

What's the hearing for?

 

Andy

[hicks86]

Hi andyorch

 

Basically cutting long story short we taking an estate agents to court for the return of our £950 bound after we had to move from the property in January as there was a nightclub behind there and was subjected to excessive noise till early morning, the property was misrepresented as they were aware of our specifications and we had also asked the question on the viewing.

 

What im hoping for is to find out the procedures in the small claims court. For example, reading out an opening statement, cross examination etc?

 

Any assitance would be most appreciated

 

Thanks

[AndyOrch]

Is it the the main trial or a CMC hearing or a Allocation hearing ?...what stage are you at.?

 

Andy

[hicks86]

It is the main hearing.

 

Thanks

[AndyOrch]

Ok so you have already submitted your bundle and prepared? Well the hearing will probably last 1-2 hours it will take place in a side room around a table or even in the DJ chambers.

You on one side of the table the defendant on the other and the dJ at the end of the table.No wigs or gowns just an informal meeting.

Present your case when asked by the DJ refer to him as Sir or Madam..be polite and if there is anything you are unsure of ask for an explanation.

 

There is no reading out of statements or cross examination hicks......not like TV and Crown Courts.

[hicks86]

When you say bundle you are referring to the evidence and witness statements? Yes that has been submitted two months ago.

 

Preparation, myself and my partner have been looking over the evidence and making points against it, gone through witness statements and have made points and questions.

 

By presenting the case would you suggest I note the key points of the case and then think about any questions that may be asked regarding this?

 

Very helpful information thankyou again

[AndyOrch]

Just prepare 3 copies of a Skeleton Argument..as you say the bullet points and references to anything you preempt may arise on your copy.

 

Regards

 

Andy

[hicks86]

Sorry last newb question - why 3 copies?

 

Thanks

[AndyOrch]

You Judge and Defendant

[hicks86]

Ah got it.

 

Thanks again andy, much appreciated