N180 Directions Questionnaire
The N180 is the directions questionnaire for the small claims track. It collects information the court needs to manage your case, including details about witnesses, documents, and hearing preferences.
N180 Directions Questionnaire
About the N180 Form
The N180 directions questionnaire is the form used specifically for the small claims track. You will receive it after your case has been allocated to the small claims track (usually notified via the N149A form). It asks about witnesses, documents you intend to rely on, and your hearing preferences.
Need Help Completing the N180?
Our defended claims guide walks you through each step of the small claims process, including how to complete the directions questionnaire.
View Defended Claims Guide →When You Receive the N180
The N180 directions questionnaire is sent out at a specific stage in the small claims process. Understanding when and why you receive it helps you prepare your response:
After allocation to the small claims track
The court sends the N180 once your case has been allocated to the small claims track. This happens after the defendant files a defence and the allocation questionnaire (N150) process is complete.
Sent alongside directions from the court
The N180 usually arrives with initial directions from the court, which may include instructions about exchanging documents and preparing for the hearing.
Both claimant and defendant receive a copy
Both parties are sent the N180 and both must complete and return it. The court uses both responses to set appropriate directions and a hearing date.
Section-by-Section Guide
The N180 directions questionnaire is divided into several sections. Here is what each section asks for and how to complete it:
Your Details
Your name, address, case reference number, and the names of the other parties involved.
Witnesses
Details of any witnesses you want to call to give evidence at the hearing, including whether any special measures are needed (e.g. video link, interpreter).
Expert Evidence
Whether you need an expert to provide evidence. This is unusual in small claims cases and the court must give permission before expert evidence can be used.
Hearing Preferences
Any dates you or your witnesses are unavailable, special requirements for the hearing (e.g. disability access), and whether you want a telephone or video hearing.
Other Information
Anything else you think the court should know about your case, such as settlement attempts or any other relevant details.
Declaration
You must sign the statement of truth confirming that the information you have given is true. A false statement can lead to contempt of court proceedings.
Important Deadlines
Return within the specified date
The court will specify a deadline for returning the N180, usually 14 days from the date it was sent. Check the covering letter or notice for your exact deadline.
Failure to return
If you do not return the N180 by the deadline, the court may make decisions about your case without your input. This could include setting a hearing date on a day you are unavailable or proceeding without considering your witness requirements.
Requesting an extension
If you need more time, you can contact the court before the deadline to request an extension. Provide a good reason and act promptly - the court is more likely to grant extensions requested before the deadline passes.
What Happens After You Return the N180
Once both parties have returned their directions questionnaires, the court will progress your case towards a hearing:
Court issues standard directions
The court will send both parties a set of directions. These typically include instructions to exchange copies of all documents you intend to rely on at the hearing, usually at least 14 days before the hearing date.
Hearing date is set
A hearing date will be set, taking into account the availability dates you provided in the N180. The court will send a notice of hearing with the date, time, and location.
Both parties prepare evidence
You should prepare your evidence bundle, arrange for any witnesses to attend, and ensure you comply with all directions. Our defended claims guide covers evidence preparation in detail.
Download Form N180
You can download the official N180 directions questionnaire from GOV.UK. The court will also send you a copy when your case is allocated to the small claims track.
Form N180
Directions questionnaire (small claims track)
The official directions questionnaire for cases allocated to the small claims track. Download from GOV.UK.
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Download N180 from GOV.UKKey Deadlines
- Return within 14 days (check your notice)
- Court may proceed without your input if late
- Request extension before deadline if needed