Find your small claims court

Each guide below covers small claims in one city in England and Wales: the main civil court there, how to start a claim and what to expect at a hearing. Most claims are started online, and if yours goes to a hearing the court will tell you where.

Central London County Court

Birmingham Civil and Family Justice Centre

Bristol Civil and Family Justice Centre

Leeds Combined Court Centre

Liverpool Civil and Family Court

Manchester Civil Justice Centre

Newcastle Civil & Family Courts and Tribunals Centre

Cardiff Civil and Family Justice Centre

Do I have to file my small claim at a particular court?

No. Most money claims are started online through GOV.UK (Make a court claim for money) rather than at a local court. If the claim is defended and goes to a hearing, the court decides where it is heard and will tell you.

Which court will hear my small claim?

It depends on the parties and the claim, so it may not be the court listed here for your city. Your notice of hearing will give the venue and say whether the hearing is in person, by telephone or by video.

Where can I check a court address?

GOV.UK Find a Court or Tribunal lists every court with its address, opening hours and facilities. Always check it, and your hearing notice, before you travel.

Find your small claims court

Last updated: September 2026

Check the official listing

Courts move and buildings sometimes close. GOV.UK Find a Court or Tribunal is the official list. Check it, and your hearing notice, before you travel. Small claims in Scotland and Northern Ireland follow different rules and are not covered here.

GOV.UK Find a Court or Tribunal →

Getting ready for any small claim

• if you win and are not paid.

Frequently asked questions

Build your small claim

Start My Claim guides you through each step, from the letter before action to the claim form and the hearing, wherever your claim is heard.