---
title: "What is European Small Claims Procedure? | Benefit Systems"
description: "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."
source: "aus dem gebauten HTML abgeleitet"
---
# 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](/de/glossar/bagatellverfahren)

## Related terms #

- [Alternative dispute resolution body](/en/glossary/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](/en/glossary/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](/en/glossary/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?](/en/knowledge/us-delay-compensation)
- [What do US airlines owe you when your flight is cancelled?](/en/knowledge/us-cancellation-rights)
- [Do you have to accept a voucher instead of cash?](/en/knowledge/voucher-vs-cash)