Q.  I am a small business owner and I have been having a difficult time getting payments from some of my clients. How can I reclaim the amounts owed?

28.02.10

You can now bring claims of up to €2,000 to the Small Claims Court. From Monday 11 January 2010 businesses involved in disputes with other businesses can use the Small Claims Court. Up to now the court has only been available to consumers.

The aim of the Small Claims Court procedure is to provide an inexpensive, fast and easy way to resolve disputes without the need to employ a solicitor. The service is provided in your local District Court office and the application fee is €15. To avail of the Small Claims Court procedure your business must have purchased goods or services from someone selling them in the course of business. You cannot make claims in respect of debts, personal injuries or breach of leasing or hire purchase agreements. The court officials can settle many cases through negotiation, without the case having to be listed for court. You have a choice of legal routes since normal court proceedings are also available. It is advisable to have legal advice if your case is listed for court.

You can download an application form for the Small Claims Court from the www.courts.ie website or from www.citizensinformation.ie . Application forms are also available from your local District Court office. Staff in your District Court office or local Citizens Information Centre can help in completing the application form. For personal claims you can also make an online application on the www.courts.ie website, but this is not currently available for business to business claims.

Citizens Information: Buncrana 074 9363496; Carndonagh 074 9373741

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