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

Closed on 31 July 2023

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.