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DisputesUpdated 1 min read

Small Claims Court Kenya: recover up to KES 1 million

A fast, informal court for debts, contracts and minor injury claims, designed to conclude cases within 60 days.

By Wakili Link Editorial

The Small Claims Court, established under the Small Claims Court Act, 2016, handles civil claims of up to KES 1 million. It is designed for ordinary people and small businesses to use without an advocate.

What it handles

  • contracts for the sale and supply of goods or services,
  • money held and received, and debts,
  • liability in tort for loss or damage to property, and
  • compensation for personal injuries,
  • set-off and counterclaims under contracts.

How it works

  1. File a statement of claim using the prescribed form, with supporting documents, and pay the filing fee. E-filing is available.
  2. Serve the respondent, who files a response.
  3. Hearing — informal, with the adjudicator able to ask questions directly. Strict rules of evidence are relaxed.
  4. Judgment — the Act requires claims to be determined within 60 days of filing.

Representation

Parties may appear in person. Advocates may appear, but the process is built for self-representation.

Appeals

Appeals lie to the High Court on matters of law.

Tips

  • Bring clear documents: invoices, contracts, delivery notes, M-Pesa statements, correspondence.
  • Send a demand letter first; many debtors pay once a claim is threatened.

This article is general information, not legal advice on your situation.

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    Small Claims Court Kenya: recover up to KES 1 million