What is European Small Claims Procedure?

The European Small Claims Procedure is a simplified court route for cross-border claims up to a statutory ceiling, with no need for a lawyer.

Also called: Small claims procedure.

How it works#

The process runs largely in writing on standard forms and ends in a judgment enforceable across member states. It is the route for a compensation claim against an airline based in another member state once letters and conciliation have failed. Court fees apply but stay below those of ordinary proceedings.

Not to be confused with#

The small claims procedure is not the same as a claim agency: an agency buys the claim or works for a success fee, while the procedure is run by the traveller.

In German#

The German term is Bagatellverfahren. German version of this term

Related terms#

• Alternative dispute resolution body: An alternative dispute resolution body is a recognised organisation that settles disputes between travellers and providers out of court, usually free for the traveller.
• Flight compensation: Flight compensation is a flat statutory payment owed by the airline for cancellation, long delay or denied boarding, scaled by flight distance.
• Refund: A refund is the repayment of the fare when a flight is cancelled or the passenger no longer wants to travel after a disruption.

Articles that use this term#

• How much are you owed for a delayed flight?
• What do US airlines owe you when your flight is cancelled?
• Do you have to accept a voucher instead of cash?