Lagos State Judiciary Hosts Workshop on Small Claims Court

• Alogba says Small Claims Court offers an accessible platform for dispute resolution
• Small Claims Court concept has its roots in the early 20th century
• Small Claims Court success in the United States inspired several African countries, such as South Africa, Kenya

The Lagos State Judiciary recently organized a one-day training workshop aimed at improving access to justice for Magistrates, Registrars, and Sheriffs.

Eko Hot Blog gathered that the workshop focused on the operations, history, and purpose of the Small Claims Court and highlighted the recent amendments to the Magistrates’ Practice Direction of 2023.

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Honourable Chief Judge of Lagos State, Hon. Justice Kazeem Alogba, emphasized the importance of the Small Claims Court in providing affordable, efficient, and accessible dispute resolution, especially for individuals and small businesses dealing with minor monetary claims.

He noted that the Small Claims Court concept has its roots in the early 20th century when Harvard Law School Dean Roscoe Pound proposed the “People’s Court” to address the complexities and high costs of traditional legal processes.

The Honourable Chief Justice disclosed that the success of the Small Claims Court in the United States inspired several African countries, such as South Africa, Kenya, Rwanda, Togo, and Nigeria, to adopt the practice.

Alogba emphasized that the Small Claims Court offers an accessible platform for dispute resolution without the requirement of expensive legal representation or delays commonly experienced in traditional court proceedings.

He highlighted that the establishment of the Small Claims Court in Lagos State demonstrates a commitment to modernizing the judicial system while addressing the specific needs of its populace.

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The workshop examined how the court has streamlined the resolution of minor monetary disputes, making justice both accessible and affordable for all citizens.

In conclusion, Alogba stated that this initiative exemplifies the Lagos State Judiciary’s dedication to innovation and inclusivity within its legal processes.

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