Petition · past parliament · Ministry of Justice

Create an absolute right to appeal judgements in 'small claims court' cases

Closed 69 signatures

What the petition asks

To allow anyone to appeal a 'small claims court' case ruling. Currently you need permission to appeal and this can only be on a point of law not of fact. There should be an opportunity to appeal and have a case to be reviewed by a 2nd Judge.
We believe this change is needed to ensure people feel they have had a fair trial, as per their rights under the Human Rights Act.

I was taken to court over my cat but though I disagreed with the judgement I had no right to appeal.

In the criminal courts the burden of proof is higher, and rights to appeal a judgement are less restrictive.

In a 'small claims court' case where the standard of proof is on the balance of probabilities there is no right to appeal if you disagree with the original judgement. I strongly feel that there should be a right to have case reviewed by a second Judge if someone does want to appeal.

Timeline

31 Jan 2023 Petition opened for signatures
31 Jul 2023 Closed to new signatures

Key facts

Signatures 69
Status Closed
Department Ministry of Justice
Opened 31 Jan 2023
Closed 31 Jul 2023

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Source: the official petition page. Last checked 15 Jul 2026.