- From our undercover work on extended warranties, we know that many shops, including nationwide retail chains, are misleading customers about their rights. But we've also heard many stories about a retailer immediately sorting out the problem once a claim is lodged with the Disputes Tribunal.
- More than 10 percent of claims never go to a hearing. Just the act of lodging a claim with the Disputes Tribunal could get you the result you want.
- Disputes Tribunals provide accessible and uncomplicated justice - but successful claimants can still be left out-of-pocket. Claimants who get a decision in their favour should have their tribunal fee reimbursed to them by the party found to be at fault. We urge the government to change the Act, and make this possible.
Jargon buster
Applicant or plaintiff
The person who has lodged the claim.
Respondent
The person who is being claimed against.
Referee
The person who will hear the dispute.
Claim
The applicant's request for a remedy.
Counterclaim
The respondent's request for a remedy, if she has one.
Order
The referee's decision, which is binding.
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