Short answer: Yes, if you have strong evidence and the debtor can pay.
The traditional calculation (time vs recovery) changes completely when automation handles everything for you. What used to require 10-20 hours now takes 5 minutes.
When it's worth it
You have strong evidence Contracts, invoices, emails, texts, or bank transfers that prove the debt.
The amount justifies the effort With Garfield: Worth pursuing at any amount (5 minutes of your time, most fees recoverable if you win) DIY: Usually £500+ minimum (10-20 hours of work makes smaller claims unviable)
They can afford to pay If they're bankrupt, unemployed, or have no assets, winning in court doesn't help: you still won't get paid.
The main risk: Winning but not getting paid
About 40-60% of judgments are paid voluntarily after you win.
But 10-20% are never collected, even after Court. If the defendant has no money or assets, winning a judgment doesn't magically create funds.
You can use bailiffs or enforcement orders, but that takes more time and money.
When it's NOT worth it
You have weak evidence If you can't prove the debt with documentation, you'll lose and waste court fees.
Something went wrong during performance of the contract If the debtor is able and likely to bring a counterclaim that is larger than your claim, it's probably not worth pursuing your claim.
They're unemployed or bankrupt Winning means nothing if they can't pay. Check their financial situation first.
You haven't tried negotiating Always send a Letter Before Action first. Many people settle (70-80%) without needing court.
Success rates
- Most debtors settle after receiving a Letter Before Action
- Very few claims are defended (only about 5% on average) and
- Only about 2% go to a hearing
Your chances are good if you have proper evidence.
Why automation makes all claims worthwhile
The old calculation: DIY small claims = 10-20 hours of work. This made debts, especially small ones under £1,000, barely worth the effort.
With Garfield:
- Time: 5 minutes instead of 10-20 hours
- Hassle: Zero (no research, forms, or postal runs)
- Cost: Recoverable fixed fees
- Success rate: Professional presentation increases settlement likelihood
The result: Any legitimate claim becomes viable because you're not sacrificing hours of your time. The time-to-recovery ratio transforms completely. Even small amounts are worth pursuing when it only takes 5 minutes.