Court Hearing Next month - what to expect

[vosbvt]

There is a small claims court hearing coming up, I am the defendant. This is a claim brought by an ex partner, is malicious following the end of the relationship. It was abusive and police were involved. Im really reluctant to post a lot of detail because of the circumstances and if they find this.
But I just want to know what to expect? The hearing is in person. Im so worried, its making me ill.

[PallasAthena]

I appreciate you not wanting to give details but hard to advise without some idea what the claim is about. Is he claiming money from you? Or is the court action about something else?

Do you have a solicitor or legal help in preparing for the hearing?

[atticus]

Look at the guides in the resources thread - link in my signature.

[vosbvt]

There is a small claims court hearing coming up, I am the defendant. This is a claim brought by an ex partner, is malicious following the end of the relationship. It was abusive and police were involved. Im really reluctant to post a lot of detail because of the circumstances and if they find this.
But I just want to know what to expect? The hearing is in person. Im so worried, its making me ill.

No solicitor or legal help. I understand not much help can be provided, I appreciate that. It was just more what to expect on the day. And yes its a claim for money. Ive seen the link to resources so will take a look at them. Thanks

[atticus]

Do come back if you have any specific questions.

[islandgirl]

When I have been to small claims civil court it is more relaxed than you expect. In my expierence you sit at a table in front of the judge and explain everything to him. There is little formality. Try not to be too nervous. The most important thing is to have your evidence notated so you can say to the judge - please look at page 63 for proof that I paid.....
best of luck!

[echat11]

Try not to worry, when you think about it, try to do things you enjoy i.e. watch TV, bake, listen to music.
It's all fairly relaxed. Judges for all their 'faults' tend to pick up 'demeanor' pretty quickly.
Afterwards you are going to think 'what was all that worry about?'.

[atticus]

Remember to think about what you will need to prove or disprove, and the evidence you will use to do that. Organise your paperwork as islandgirl recommends.

[vosbvt]

Following on from my previous post, I have an update. The first hearing was adjourned because the court had not appointed the QLRs that had been ordered for both parties. I was prepared to proceed without one, but the Claimant (the prohibited party) was not, so the hearing could not go ahead.
The matter has now been relisted. The court has appointed a QLR for the Claimant, but I still do not have one.
I raised the issue through the online portal before the hearing, but I was directed back to the court. I then contacted the court, but did not receive a response until I chased it up. I have now been advised that the court is still trying to find a QLR for me, but as the hearing is only a few days away, they have suggested I upload the correspondence and supporting documents to the portal for the Judge to consider. Basically - turn up on the day and see what happens.

I am concerned about proceeding without a QLR when the original order was that both parties should have one, particularly as the court previously found that the quality of evidence could be affected if parties cross-examined each other in person.
However, I also do not want this matter to continue being delayed, as the first hearing has already been adjourned and the ongoing uncertainty is causing significant stress and disruption.

What is the likely outcome here?

[echat11]

Celestine Can you please take a look.