Default judgment
A decision in your favour because the other side was served and did not turn up.
The judge still wants to see that the papers were served properly and that your figures add up. A default is not automatic.
The other side can usually ask to set it aside within a short window if they had a real reason for missing the date, so keep your file until the money arrives.
Related words
Common questions
- What does default judgment mean in small claims court?
- A decision in your favour because the other side was served and did not turn up. The judge still wants to see that the papers were served properly and that your figures add up. A default is not automatic.
- What does proof of service mean in small claims court?
- The signed form saying who delivered the papers, to whom, when, where, and how. Whoever delivered the papers signs it, not you. It goes back to the court before the hearing.
- What does judgment mean in small claims court?
- The court's written decision, including how much, if anything, is to be paid. A judgment is a decision, not money in your hand. It says the other side owes you an amount, and often adds the filing fee and service costs on top.
- What does hearing mean in small claims court?
- The short session where both sides tell the judge what happened and hand over their evidence. Most small claims hearings run fifteen to thirty minutes. The judge has read the claim, asks questions, looks at what each side brought, and often decides that day.
Verified on 2026-09-06, sources:
Verified on 2026-09-06, sources:
FairSquare assembles documents and explains your court's rules. It is not a substitute for advice about your situation.