Singapore

Mediation Before Small Claims in Singapore

$20,000
Maximum claim amount for SCT jurisdiction
14 days
Time to attend mediation after referral
95%
Settlement rate at Community Mediation Centres (2023 data)
3 months
Typical time from mediation referral to SCT filing if unresolved
The Short Answer

Yes, you must attempt mediation at the Singapore Mediation Centre (SMC) or Community Mediation Centre (CMC) before filing a Small Claims Tribunal (SCT) claim — unless exempted.

What the Law Says

Practical Steps

Important Deadlines

When to See a Lawyer

Sources

statuteSmall Claims Tribunals Act (Cap. 301)statuteSmall Claims Tribunals Rules (Cap. 301, R 1)governmentCommunity Mediation Centres (CMC) – Official SitegovernmentState Courts Small Claims Tribunal Guide

Related Questions

What is the maximum claim amount in Small Claims Court Singapore?Can I represent myself in Small Claims Tribunal Singapore?How long does Small Claims take in Singapore?What happens if the other party does not attend mediation Singapore?Is Small Claims Tribunal decision final Singapore?

Not legal advice. This article is general information based on publicly available sources, written for educational purposes. Laws change and individual situations vary. Consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction before acting on anything you read here. Last reviewed: 2026-10-18.