Reform of the EU Small Claims Procedure (Regulation)

The European small claims procedure will be made more attractive for consumers and small businesses.

cepPolicyBrief

The largely written procedure is much more susceptible to errors than proceedings where oral hearings are standard. Where the claim value may amount to 10,000 euro, the error rate is unacceptable. The limit on court fees reduces reluctance to bring legal actions and thus encourages the enforcement of rights. The EU has no power to extend the European procedure by redefining cross-border claims to include in effect domestic cases.