How Small Claims Court Works in Glasgow
Glasgow Sheriff Court is Scotland's busiest court, handling a significant volume of money claims through the Simple Procedure (up to £5,000). Scotland's legal system differs from England and Wales — there is no MCOL, and claims are processed through the Sheriff Court system.
This guide covers everything you need to know — from sending a Letter Before Action through to filing your claim and enforcing a judgment if the defendant still doesn't pay.
Step-by-Step: Making a Small Claim in Glasgow
Send a Letter Before Action (LBA)
Before filing a court claim, you must send the debtor a formal Letter Before Action. This is a legal requirement under the Pre-Action Protocol and gives them 14 days to pay. Many debts in Glasgow are settled at this stage — a professional legal letter is often enough to prompt payment without going to court.
File Your Claim at the Sheriff Court
In Scotland, you must file your claim directly with Glasgow Sheriff Court. For claims up to £5,000, use the Simple Procedure. Complete the claim form, include your particulars, and pay the court fee.
The Defendant Responds
Once served, the defendant has 14 days to respond. They can: (1) Pay the full amount, (2) Admit the claim and propose a payment plan, (3) Defend the claim, or (4) Do nothing. If they don't respond, you can request judgment in default — the court rules in your favour without a hearing.
Hearing (If Defended)
If the defendant defends the claim, the court will allocate it to the small claims track (for amounts under £5,000) and may set a hearing date. Small claims hearings are informal — you don't need a solicitor. The judge will hear both sides and make a decision, usually on the day.
Enforcement (If They Still Don't Pay)
Winning in court doesn't guarantee payment. If the defendant still doesn't pay after judgment, you'll need to enforce it. Options include bailiffs (High Court Enforcement Officers for claims over £600), attachment of earnings, charging orders, or third-party debt orders. Our pack includes enforcement documents and guidance.
Small Claims Court Fees in Glasgow
Court fees are paid when you file your claim and are recoverable from the defendant if you win. Fees are set by HMCTS and apply across all county courts in England and Wales.
| Claim Amount | Court Fee |
|---|---|
| Up to £300 | £35 |
| £300.01 – £500 | £50 |
| £500.01 – £1,000 | £70 |
| £1,000.01 – £1,500 | £80 |
| £1,500.01 – £3,000 | £115 |
| £3,000.01 – £5,000 | £205 |
| £5,000.01 – £10,000 | £455 |
| £10,000.01 – £100,000 | 5% of claim |
Fees are recoverable from the defendant if you win. You may be eligible for a fee remission if you receive certain benefits — check at gov.uk/get-help-with-court-fees.
Types of Small Claims in Glasgow
Construction and subcontractor payment disputes
Professional services fee recovery
Property landlord-tenant claims
Small business trade debt
Consumer disputes with Glasgow traders
Tips for Glasgow Sheriff Court
Glasgow Sheriff Court uses the Simple Procedure for claims up to £5,000. Claims between £5,000 and £100,000 use the Summary Cause procedure. You cannot use MCOL in Scotland.
What You Need to Make a Small Claim in Glasgow
Defendant's Details
Full name and address of the person or business you're claiming against. For businesses, use the registered address.
The Amount Owed
The exact amount you're claiming, plus any interest. You can claim statutory interest at 8% above base rate on commercial debts.
Particulars of Claim
A brief written statement explaining why you're owed the money — what was agreed, what was delivered, and what hasn't been paid.
Supporting Evidence
Invoices, contracts, emails, text messages, photos of completed work, bank transfer records — anything that supports your claim.
Proof of LBA
Evidence that you sent a Letter Before Action and gave the defendant 14 days to respond before filing.
Court Fee Payment
Payment by card (online via MCOL) or cheque/card at the court office. Fees range from £35 to £455 depending on the claim amount.
Useful Links for Glasgow Small Claims
Frequently Asked Questions
Need Help with Your Small Claim in Glasgow?
Tell us about your situation and we'll point you in the right direction.
Debt Recovery Pack
Everything you need from first demand to enforcement
One-off payment · Instant download
- Personalised Letter Before Action
- Case Strength Assessment
- Particulars of Claim Draft
- Step-by-Step Court Guide
- Enforcement Documents
- Evidence Checklist
- 14-Day Recovery Plan
No subscription · No solicitor needed
Related Services in Glasgow
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