Will there be a court hearing?

1. Settlement Before Hearing
 

• Most small claims cases are resolved before a hearing through:

  • Negotiation between parties

  • Mediation (e.g., free small claims mediation service offered by the court)
     

2. Paper-Based Decisions
 

• In some cases, especially if the amount is small or the issues are simple, the judge may decide the case based on documents alone (called a "paper hearing").

• Both parties must agree to this.
   

3. Court Hearing
 

• If no settlement is reached and the case goes to court:

  • A hearing is scheduled, usually informal.

  • You can represent yourself (solicitors are not required).

  • The hearing is usually short and done in person, by video, or telephone.
     

Summary
 

Scenarios-is a Hearing Required?
 

Settlement before court❌ No
 

Mediation successful❌ No
 

Both sides agree to paper hearing❌ No
 

Case proceeds with no agreement✅ Yes