THE total value of small claims judgments in Northern Ireland has jumped to its highest levels in five years according to new figures.
Data from the Registry Trust for 2017 shows there were 8,742 small claims judgments over the year, 19 per cent more than in 2016. The average claim also increased by 18 per cent to £2,248. Combined these hikes led to a 41 percent rise in the total value of small claims judgments.
In the High Court 111 judgments were registered, nine more than in the previous year, while the average High Court judgment rose 51 percent, leading to a 64 percent increase in the total value of judgments.
The total value of judgments last year in all courts in Northern Ireland was £36m compared with £24m in 2016.
Lenders accounted for only 33 percent of the volume of judgments made during 2016 and 2017. The rest were mainly from government, housing and utilities.
