Interactive decision tree
Please use our interactive tool to understand more about the criminal and civil justice systems and how the two systems can interact. It outlines the main steps, and has been specifically created with the individuals and smaller business victim in mind.
Please carefully read about the main differences between the criminal and civil justice systems before using the decision tree.
Do you want to instruct a law firm or act as a litigant in person?
Acting as a litigant in person may be preferable in very small cases in which the cost of instructing legal representation may outweigh any possible cost order.
Throughout civil proceedings it is always possible to agree an alternative resolution out of court: a settlement. Indeed, this is encouraged by the courts, and it will reduce legal costs. Whether settlement is possible – and at what stage it is possible – will be very fact specific.