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Small Claims Track: What to Expect at a Parking Hearing

Last updated: 15 April 2026

Private parking charge court claims are almost always allocated to the small claims track because they are under GBP10,000 in value. The small claims track is designed to be accessible without a solicitor. Hearings are informal, costs exposure is minimal, and you can represent yourself confidently with proper preparation.

  • --Parking claims are typically allocated to the small claims track (under GBP10,000)
  • --You do not need a solicitor -- the process is designed for litigants in person
  • --Costs exposure is limited, so you will not face a large legal bill if you lose
  • --Hearings are informal and usually last 30 to 60 minutes

Key Takeaways

  1. The small claims track is informal and designed for cases under GBP10,000
  2. You will not normally be ordered to pay the other side's legal costs if you lose
  3. Prepare a clear witness statement setting out your defence in logical order
  4. Bring all documents organised in a bundle for the judge
  5. Many parking companies discontinue claims before the hearing date

Key Definitions

Small claims track
The simplest of three tracks used in the county court for civil claims. Cases under GBP10,000 in value are typically allocated here. The process is informal and designed for litigants in person.
Litigant in person
A person who represents themselves in court proceedings without a solicitor or barrister. The majority of defendants in parking charge claims are litigants in person.
Directions
Orders made by the court setting out the steps each party must take before the hearing, such as filing evidence, preparing a bundle, or exchanging witness statements.

Allocation to the Small Claims Track

After you file your defence, the court will allocate the claim to a track. Parking charge claims, which are typically between GBP60 and GBP170 plus court fees, are always allocated to the small claims track. The court will send directions to both parties setting out a timetable for exchanging evidence and preparing for the hearing.

Preparing for the Hearing

Prepare a clear, concise witness statement covering your defence points in logical order. Address each element of the claim: POFA compliance, signage, the charge level, and any other grounds. Assemble all documents into a bundle with numbered pages and an index. Include the claim form, your defence, correspondence, photographs, and any evidence supporting your case. Bring three copies of the bundle: one for you, one for the judge, and one for the claimant.

What Happens at the Hearing

The hearing is informal. The judge will usually ask each side to summarise their case briefly, then work through the issues. You may be asked questions by the judge. The claimant's representative (often a solicitor's clerk) will present their case. You present your defence. The judge will decide on the day or reserve judgment for later. Most small claims hearings for parking charges last 30 to 60 minutes.

Costs on the Small Claims Track

One of the key advantages of the small claims track is limited costs exposure. If you lose, you will normally only be ordered to pay the claim amount, court fees, and limited fixed costs. You will not be ordered to pay the claimant's solicitor's costs. This makes defending a parking charge claim low risk. If you win, you can recover your own court fees and limited expenses.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a solicitor for a small claims parking hearing?

No. The small claims track is specifically designed for litigants in person. You can represent yourself. The process is informal and the judge will guide you through it.

What happens if I lose at the small claims hearing?

If you lose, you will be ordered to pay the parking charge plus court fees and limited fixed costs. You will not be ordered to pay the claimant's solicitor's fees. The financial risk of defending is relatively low.

How long does a parking charge hearing take?

Most parking charge hearings on the small claims track last between 30 and 60 minutes. The judge will work through the issues efficiently.

Do parking companies actually turn up to court?

Many parking companies discontinue claims before the hearing date, especially when a strong defence has been filed. Those that do attend typically send a solicitor's clerk or a paralegal rather than a barrister.

Can the hearing be done by phone or video?

Yes. Many small claims hearings are now conducted by telephone or video link. The court will notify you of the format. The process is the same regardless of whether it is in person or remote.

What documents should I bring to court?

Prepare a bundle containing the claim form, your defence, all correspondence, photographs of signage, the NTK and NTD, and your witness statement. Number every page and include an index. Bring three copies.

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