Quick Answer
If a complaint to the seller or a regulator doesn’t resolve things, the Small Claims Court offers a fast, lawyer-free way to recover money disputes up to KES 1,000,000, with cases concluded within 60 days. Larger disputes go to the regular courts.
Key facts
- The Small Claims Court handles disputes up to KES 1,000,000.
- You can represent yourself — no lawyer required.
- Cases are concluded within 60 days.
- Larger disputes go to the magistrate’s or higher courts.
Filing a complaint that works
Whether to a regulator or the seller, a strong complaint states the facts clearly, attaches evidence (receipts, photos, correspondence), and asks for a specific remedy. Regulators like the CAK can investigate, order refunds and penalise businesses.
The Small Claims Court
For money disputes, the Small Claims Court is designed for ordinary people: it handles claims up to KES 1,000,000, without needing a lawyer, with low fees, and is required to conclude cases within 60 days. It is ideal for consumer claims a seller refuses to settle.
Bigger or complex disputes
Claims above KES 1,000,000, or more complex matters, go to the magistrate’s court or the High Court, and the Consumer and Competition Tribunal hears appeals from CAK decisions. For these, legal advice is worthwhile.
Why this matters to you
Knowing the Small Claims Court exists — fast, cheap and lawyer-free — transforms a stuck complaint into a real, enforceable result. Most consumer disputes fit well within it.
Frequently asked questions
How much can the Small Claims Court handle?
Money disputes up to KES 1,000,000.
Do I need a lawyer?
No — the Small Claims Court is designed for self-representation.
How fast is it?
Cases are required to be concluded within 60 days.
Sources & references
- Small Claims Court Act, 2016 — kenyalaw.org
- Competition Authority of Kenya — cak.go.ke