N180 — Directions Questionnaire (Small Claims)
Completed by each party after a defence is filed in a small claims case. Tells the court about witnesses, hearing dates to avoid, and whether you want mediation.
Who uses this form
Both claimants and defendants in claims allocated (or likely to be allocated) to the small claims track — usually claims under £10,000.
When to use it
Complete and return this form by the deadline stated in the Notice of Proposed Allocation letter from the court. Missing the deadline can result in your case being struck out.
Where to file
Return to the court that issued the form. Do not file a copy with the other party — the court serves a copy on them.
Court fee
Free to complete and return.
Common mistakes to avoid
Missing the strict return deadline — this can result in the case being struck out without further notice
Not indicating all unavailable hearing dates clearly — you may be given a date you cannot attend
Ticking 'no' to mediation without considering it — the court encourages mediation and it can save costs
Forgetting to sign the form
Not listing all witnesses you intend to call
Related Guides
Related Letter Templates
Official source
Download / view form on GOV.UK or HMCTSAlways download forms directly from official government sources. Third-party copies may be outdated.