- The Small Claims Tribunals hear certain types of claim up to S$20,000, or S$30,000 if both sides agree in writing.
- The Magistrate's Court hears claims up to S$60,000.
- The District Court hears claims above S$60,000 and up to S$250,000.
- Claims above S$250,000 go to the General Division of the High Court.
Two levels of court
Singapore's courts are divided into the State Courts and the Supreme Court. The State Courts include the Magistrates' Courts, the District Courts and several tribunals, such as the Small Claims Tribunals, the Community Disputes Resolution Tribunals and the Employment Claims Tribunals. The Supreme Court is made up of the High Court and the Court of Appeal.
Which court hears a claim depends mainly on its value, and sometimes on its nature.
The monetary limits
In general terms:
- Small Claims Tribunals: certain categories of claim up to S$20,000. The limit can rise to S$30,000 if both parties consent in writing.
- Magistrate's Court: claims up to S$60,000.
- District Court: claims above S$60,000 and up to S$250,000.
- High Court (General Division): claims above S$250,000.
The Small Claims Tribunals
The Small Claims Tribunals are meant to be a quicker and simpler route for smaller disputes. They hear only certain types of claim, such as many disputes over the sale of goods or the supply of services, so not every claim under S$20,000 qualifies.
Lawyers cannot represent parties at the tribunal hearings. People present their own cases, although they can take legal advice beforehand.
Employment and other specialist tribunals
Some disputes have their own forum. Salary and wrongful dismissal claims, for example, go through the Employment Claims Tribunals, and mediation at the Tripartite Alliance for Dispute Management usually has to come first.
Appeals
A party who loses may be able to appeal to a higher court. Most civil appeals from the General Division of the High Court go to the Appellate Division of the High Court. Some types of appeal go directly to the Court of Appeal, which is Singapore's final appellate court. Certain appeals need the court's permission before they can be brought.
Why it matters
The choice of court affects the procedure, the time a case may take and the likely legal costs. Larger and more complex cases in the higher courts usually involve more steps and more preparation.
Many disputes never reach a hearing. A letter of demand, negotiation or mediation often comes first, and the Rules of Court 2021 expect parties to try to settle before suing.
Getting advice on your situation
If you are unsure where your claim belongs, or whether the Small Claims Tribunals can hear it, a lawyer can look at the amount, the type of claim and the documents, and explain the options and costs.
This article is general information on Singapore law and is not legal advice. Rules and agency policies change, and every situation is different. For advice on your own circumstances, speak with one of our lawyers.
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