How to start a civil action

III. How to start a civil action

To start a civil action, you could issue a Writ of Summons or Originating Summons in the District Court or High Court (or a claim form in case of the Small Claims Tribunal) by specifying the name and address of the defendant, and the nature and details of your claim in the relevant court forms.  You will need to pay the prescribed fees when you issue your claim(s) in the Court Registries.

Generally, if your claim does not exceed HK$75,000.00, you shall start your action in the Small Claims Tribunal.

If your claim exceeds HK$75,000.00 but does not exceed HK$3,000,000.00, you shall start your action in the District Court.

If your claim exceeds HK$3,000,000.00, you shall start your action in the High Court.