- Overview of the Small Claims Tribunals (SCT)
The Small Claims Tribunals (SCT) in Singapore are part of the State Courts, established to provide a swift and cost-effective platform for resolving low-value disputes between consumers and suppliers. The SCT offers an alternative to more formal legal proceedings, emphasizing efficiency and accessibility.
- Jurisdiction and Claim Limits
- Monetary Limits:
- Standard claims: Up to S$20,000.
- With a Memorandum of Consent signed by both parties, the limit can be increased to S$30,000. Supreme Court of Singapore
- Types of Claims:
- Contracts for the sale of goods or provision of services.
- Residential tenancy agreements not exceeding two years.
- Damage to property (excluding cases involving motor vehicle accidents).
- Disputes under the Consumer Protection (Fair Trading) Act.
- Filing a Claim
- Eligibility:
- Individuals or corporate entities can file a claim if it falls within the SCT’s jurisdiction.
- Time Limit:
- Claims must be filed within two years from the date the cause of action arose. Supreme Court of Singapore
- Procedure:
- Online Filing:
- All claims are filed through the Community Justice and Tribunals System (CJTS).
- Assistance is available at the State Courts’ Business Centre for those without internet access.
- Filing Fees:
- Fees vary based on the claim amount and applicant type (individual or corporate).
- Detailed fee information is available on the official SCT website.
- Online Filing:
- Process After Filing
- Consultation:
- Both parties attend a consultation session where a registrar attempts to mediate and resolve the dispute amicably.
- Hearing:
- If mediation fails, the case proceeds to a hearing before a tribunal magistrate, who will make a binding decision.
- Attendance:
- Both claimant and respondent must attend all scheduled sessions.
- Non-attendance can result in dismissal of the claim or a default order against the absent party. Supreme Court of Singapore
- Enforcement and Appeals
- Enforcement:
- If the respondent fails to comply with the tribunal’s order, the claimant can take steps to enforce the judgment through the courts.
- Appeals:
- Appeals are limited and can only be made on specific grounds, such as questions of law or jurisdictional issues.
- The appeal process and associated fees are outlined on the SCT’s official website.
- Benefits of Using the SCT
- Cost-Effective:
- Lower filing fees compared to traditional court proceedings.
- Expeditious:
- Most cases are resolved within four months of filing. Supreme Court of Singapore
- User-Friendly:
- Designed for individuals without legal representation, with simplified procedures and accessible resources.
- Additional Resources
- Official SCT Website:
- Comprehensive information, forms, and guidelines are available at www.judiciary.gov.sg/civil/small-claims.
- Community Justice and Tribunals System (CJTS):
- Access the online filing system at www.judiciary.gov.sg/cjts.
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