File your defence before the deadline
Answer a few questions. AI drafts your defence. We file it with the court.
No solicitor. No jargon. No risk of default judgment.
Don’t ignore it. Respond.
If you don’t file a defence within 14 days, the claimant gets a default judgment — the court orders you to pay the full amount without hearing your side. A CCJ stays on your credit file for 6 years.
Tell us what happened
Answer simple questions about the claim you received and why you disagree with it. No legal language required.
AI drafts your defence
Our AI analyses your answers and generates a structured defence that addresses each point in the claim — exactly how the court expects it.
We file it with the court
Your completed N9 defence form is filed directly. You get a copy for your records. Done.
Common questions
How long do I have to respond?
14 days from the date of service to file an acknowledgment or defence. If you acknowledge in time, you get 28 days total. Miss the deadline and the claimant can get default judgment.
Do I need a solicitor?
No. Small claims court is designed for self-representation. You cannot recover solicitor costs even if you win, so most people represent themselves. JustClaim’s AI handles the drafting for you.
What does it cost?
£59 flat fee covers preparation and filing of your defence. There is no court fee to file a defence — you only pay a court fee if you file a counterclaim.
What if I agree I owe some of the money?
You can admit part of the claim and defend the rest. You can also propose how to pay the admitted amount — immediately, by a set date, or by instalments.
What happens after I file?
The court sends both parties a directions questionnaire. Most small claims go to free telephone mediation first. If that doesn’t resolve it, there’s an informal hearing where a judge decides.
14-day deadline to respond
File your defence online in 5 minutes
Don’t let a court claim go unanswered
AI drafts your defence. We file it with the court. £59 flat fee.
File my defence now