Start My Claim vs a solicitor vs Citizens Advice: small claims help compared

The small claims track has simpler procedures, and the rules generally stop you recovering legal costs from the other side even if you win. Free help is available from Citizens Advice and from the court’s own mediation service. A solicitor is worth considering for complex or borderline claims; Start My Claim is fixed-price software to help you prepare your own claim, not legal advice.

Do I need a solicitor for the small claims court?

Often not. The small claims track has simpler procedures, and the rules generally stop you recovering legal costs from the other side even if you win (Civil Procedure Rules, rule 27.14). A solicitor can still help with a complex or borderline claim.

Can Citizens Advice help with a small claim?

Citizens Advice gives free, independent advice about consumer and money disputes and how the small claims process works. It can help you decide whether to claim. Check what your local service can offer.

Is legal aid available for a small claim?

GOV.UK lists the problems legal aid can help with, such as losing your home or serious disrepair. An ordinary consumer or money claim is not on that list, so most people pay their own way or do it themselves.

How much does it cost to go to the small claims court?

Is Start My Claim legal advice?

No. Start My Claim is not a law firm and does not give legal advice or represent you. It helps you prepare your own claim. For advice on your particular situation, speak to Citizens Advice or a solicitor.

Small claims options

Small Claims · Compare your options

Start My Claim vs a solicitor vs Citizens Advice: small claims help compared

What does each option do, and what does it cost?

When is a solicitor the better choice?

• the facts or the law are disputed in a complicated way, for example building work or professional services;
• the claim may be worth more than £10,000, which would take it off the small claims track, where the costs rules are different;
• the other side has made a counterclaim against you;
• you think the limitation period may have run out or is close;
• you need someone to negotiate or speak for you.

Check first whether an insurance policy you already hold includes legal expenses cover.

What Start My Claim does, and does not, do

Start My Claim helps you check whether you have a claim, work out interest, write a letter before action and prepare the N1 claim form and particulars of claim. Small Claims Preparation is £49 and SC Full Case is £119, one-off. Court fees are paid to the court separately.

It does not give legal advice about your individual case and does not represent you at mediation or at a hearing.

Questions people ask

Start My Claim vs a solicitor: costs

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