If you're picturing a TV courtroom, relax. Small claims hearings and tribunal hearings are deliberately informal — often a conference room, a magistrate, registrar or tribunal member, and the two of you.
Before the day
- Copies. Three of everything: one for you, one for the decision-maker, one for the other side.
- Number your documents. Annexure A, B, C… in the order you'll talk about them.
- Write a one-page timeline. It keeps you on track when nerves kick in.
On the day
Arrive early. Many tribunals start with conciliation — a chance to settle with help from a neutral person. Take it seriously: a payment plan today beats a judgment you have to chase.
If it doesn't settle, each side tells their story. You'll usually go first as the applicant.
The five questions you'll almost certainly be asked
- What exactly was agreed, and where is that written down?
- How did you calculate the amount?
- What did the other side say when you asked for payment?
- Have you received any part-payment?
- Would you accept a payment plan?
How not to blow it
- Don't interrupt. You'll get your turn.
- Don't argue with the decision-maker. Answer the question asked.
- Stick to facts, not feelings. "He ignored four messages on these dates" beats "he's a grub".
After the decision
If you win and they still don't pay, there are enforcement options — like garnishee orders or writs. Each state has its own process. SueAnyone Premium includes a hearing-day checklist and the Hearing Simulator, so you can practise the questions and know your gaps before you walk in.
General information only, not legal advice. Written by the SueAnyone editorial team.