How do I make a claim at the Disputes Tribunal?

General information from Lawmateanz

The Disputes Tribunal is a low-cost way to settle disputes, such as unpaid money, faulty goods or services, or damage to property, without going to court. Each side explains its case to a referee, and lawyers usually can't represent you.

It can hear claims of up to $60,000. You can apply online or with a paper form, and there's a filing fee that depends on how much you're claiming.

Before applying, try to settle it directly and keep records such as contracts, receipts, photos and messages. At the hearing, the referee first encourages you to reach an agreement. If you can't, they make a decision that both sides must follow.

Some disputes go elsewhere: tenancy disputes to the Tenancy Tribunal, claims against car dealers to the Motor Vehicle Disputes Tribunal, and employment problems to the Employment Relations Authority.

The Disputes Tribunal website has guides to preparing your claim, and Community Law Centres and Citizens Advice can help.

Written by Lawmateanz, not by a lawyer. General information only, not legal advice about your situation. For advice about your own matter, talk to a lawyer.

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