Legal Services · Prague

Litigation in the Czech Republic

Litigation in the Czech Republic may be necessary when a debtor refuses to pay voluntarily and amicable solutions have failed.

For foreign creditors, court proceedings in a different legal system can be complex, particularly due to procedural rules, language barriers, and unfamiliar practices.

We represent clients in commercial disputes and guide them through the entire litigation process before Czech courts.

When Is Litigation Necessary?

Court proceedings are typically required when:

  • ▸the debtor disputes the claim
  • ▸the debtor ignores payment requests
  • ▸no settlement can be reached
  • ▸formal enforcement requires a court decision

Litigation is often a key stage of debt recovery in the Czech Republic, especially in contested cases.

➡ Learn more about debt recovery in the Czech Republic

How Court Proceedings Work

1

Pre-litigation demand (formal notice)

Before filing a claim, it is standard practice to send a formal demand letter to the debtor. This step is particularly important because:

  • ▸it may lead to voluntary payment without litigation
  • ▸it demonstrates a serious intention to enforce the claim
  • ▸it is typically required for the successful party to be awarded full reimbursement of legal costs

The demand letter should clearly specify:

  • ▸the legal basis of the claim
  • ▸the amount due
2

Filing a claim

Proceedings begin with filing a claim before the competent Czech court. Key issues include:

  • ▸jurisdiction of Czech courts
  • ▸applicable law
  • ▸proper identification of the parties
  • ▸calculation of the claim
3

Written submissions and evidence

The court reviews written submissions and evidence provided by the parties. Important aspects:

  • ▸burden of proof lies with the claimant
  • ▸written contracts and invoices are essential
  • ▸witness testimony may be used
4

Court hearings

The court may schedule one or more hearings, where:

  • ▸parties present their arguments
  • ▸evidence is examined
  • ▸witnesses may be heard

In many cases, proceedings are primarily written, especially in simpler disputes.

5

Judgment

At the end of the proceedings, the court issues a judgment determining:

  • ▸whether the claim is valid
  • ▸the amount to be paid
  • ▸costs of the proceedings

A final and enforceable judgment is required for further enforcement.

Duration of Litigation

The duration of court proceedings depends on:

Factors affecting duration

  • ▸complexity of the case
  • ▸cooperation of the parties
  • ▸workload of the court

Typical timelines

  • ▸simple cases: several months
  • ▸complex disputes: 1–2 years or longer

We always aim to conduct proceedings efficiently and avoid unnecessary delays.

Litigation for Foreign Clients

Foreign creditors can initiate litigation in the Czech Republic without being physically present. We provide:

  • ▸full legal representation before Czech courts
  • ▸communication in English
  • ▸preparation of all filings and submissions
  • ▸strategic advice on jurisdiction and enforcement

We regularly assist clients in cross-border disputes involving Czech companies.

Costs of Litigation

Costs typically include:

Court fees
Legal representation
Translation and interpretation (if needed)

In successful cases, the court may order the debtor to reimburse a significant portion of legal costs.

Before initiating proceedings, we assess whether litigation is economically justified.

From Litigation to Enforcement

Obtaining a court judgment is only one step in the process.

If the debtor does not comply voluntarily, it is necessary to proceed with enforcement.

➡ Learn more about enforcement in the Czech Republic

Our Approach

Clear assessment of the claim
Efficient procedural strategy
Practical solutions aimed at recovery
Transparent communication with clients

We aim to achieve the best possible outcome while keeping costs under control.

Contact

If you need assistance with litigation in the Czech Republic, feel free to contact us.

We will review your case and propose the most effective legal strategy.