When a claim is made against you
Hearing process - When a claim in made against you
If a claim is made against you to the Disputes Tribunal you’ll be sent a notice telling you about the claim and when the Tribunal will hear the claim.
You can then do any of the following.
- Contact the person making the claim and try to settle the matter without going to the Tribunal.
- Attend the hearing and defend the claim.
- If you think you have a claim against the other party, file a claim in the Tribunal as soon as possible. The Disputes Tribunal staff will tell you how to do this. Both claims will be heard at the same time.
- Apply to the court to have your claim heard by phone conference if you live a considerable distance from where the claim is being heard.
Claims involving insurance
Disputes in the Tribunal often involve insurance. Your insurance company is entitled to take part in the hearing if it has paid you for the loss or damage, or if it might have to pay.
If you intend to take a dispute to the Tribunal and insurance is involved, contact your insurer immediately and tell them about the dispute.
If a claim is lodged against you and you think you can claim insurance, you should also contact your insurance company immediately.
