Hearing
The short session where both sides tell the judge what happened and hand over their evidence.
Trial
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.
Bring your documents in order, with a copy for the judge and a copy for the other side. A one-page summary of the dates is worth more than a folder nobody opens.
Related words
Common questions
- 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.
- What does evidence mean in small claims court?
- The documents, photos, messages, and receipts that show what happened and what it cost. Evidence is anything that shows a fact: a signed agreement, an invoice, a bank record, a text thread, a photo with a date on it, a repair estimate.
- What does exhibit mean in small claims court?
- One piece of evidence, labelled so everyone in the room can turn to the same page. Number them and refer to the number out loud: Exhibit 3 is the invoice. It saves the judge shuffling paper while you are trying to explain.
- 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.
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.