Form N208 UK: Part 8 Claim Form Guide (2026)
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Form N208 is the claim form you use to begin a Part 8 claim in the civil courts of England and Wales. Unlike the more familiar Part 7 route, which handles disputes where parties argue over facts, Part 8 is designed for matters where the underlying question is unlikely to be seriously contested, or where a rule or practice direction specifically points you towards it.
That covers a surprisingly wide range of situations: applications under trust instruments, questions about the construction of a document, approval of settlements involving a child, and various statutory applications, to name a few. This page walks through what the form is for, how it fits into the Civil Procedure Rules, and the practical points to watch when filling it in.
If any of this sounds like your situation, a short call with an experienced legal adviser can help you think through whether Part 8 is the right route before you file.
What this document is
Form N208 is the court-issued claim form for launching proceedings under Part 8 of the Civil Procedure Rules. Part 8 exists for cases where the court needs to rule on a specific legal question rather than resolve a factual dispute between parties who disagree on what happened.
You might see it used where a claimant is seeking the court's view on how a will should be interpreted, where trustees need directions, where a statute requires court approval for something, or where parties broadly agree on the facts but need a judicial decision on a point of law. The procedure moves differently from a standard money claim.
There are no particulars of claim in the usual sense, no formal defence, and evidence is typically given by witness statement rather than through pleadings and disclosure. Because of that streamlined approach, getting the initial paperwork right matters more, since you have fewer chances to course-correct later. The form itself captures the parties, the court, the question being put to the court, and the remedy sought.
How to use this document
- Choose the correct court and complete the heading. Decide whether your claim belongs in the County Court or the High Court, and if the High Court, which Division (commonly King's Bench or Chancery). The heading on the form must reflect this accurately, for example 'In the County Court at [name of court]' or 'In the High Court of Justice, Chancery Division'. Getting this wrong at the outset can cause the court to reject the form or transfer it, wasting time and fees.
- Enter the claimant and defendant details correctly. The claimant is the party bringing the claim; the defendant is the party against whom the claim is made. Use full names, titles, and a current address including postcode. For claimants who are children (under 18) or who lack capacity within the meaning of the Mental Capacity Act 2005, a litigation friend must be appointed to conduct proceedings on their behalf, and this needs to be reflected on the form.
- State the question or remedy clearly. Part 8 claims stand or fall on how well you frame the question the court is being asked to decide. Set out what you want the court to determine or order, keeping the language precise and tied to the legal basis for the claim. Vague or sprawling wording often leads to requests for clarification or, worse, the court redirecting the matter to Part 7.
- Prepare and file your written evidence. Part 8 relies on witness statements rather than pleaded particulars. Your supporting evidence should be filed with the claim form or served with it, and it needs to set out the factual background the court will need. Exhibits should be referenced properly and attached. Consider whether any documents (trust deeds, wills, contracts) need to be put before the court and how they are to be proved.
- Pay the court fee and file the form. The court charges an issue fee, which varies depending on the nature and value of the claim. Check gov.uk for the current fee before you file, and consider whether you qualify for Help with Fees. Once issued, the form and supporting evidence must be served on the defendant within the time limits set out in the Civil Procedure Rules.
Common questions
Q When should I use Part 8 instead of Part 7?
Part 8 is for claims where the main question is unlikely to involve a substantial factual dispute, or where a rule or practice direction tells you to use it. Typical examples include applications for the court's directions, approval of a settlement on behalf of a child, or a point of interpretation on a document. If you expect the defendant to dispute the facts, Part 7 is usually the correct route.
Q Do I need a solicitor to issue a Part 8 claim?
No, you can act as a litigant in person and file Form N208 yourself. That said, Part 8 procedure is less forgiving of errors because there is no formal pleading stage to refine the case. Many people find it useful to get some guidance on whether Part 8 is the right route and how to frame the question before filing, particularly where the underlying matter involves trusts, wills, or statutory applications.
Q What happens after I file Form N208?
Once the court issues the claim, you must serve it on the defendant along with your supporting evidence. The defendant then has a set period, usually 14 days after service, to file an acknowledgment of service indicating whether they contest the claim. The court will then give directions, which may include a hearing date. Timelines can vary between courts, so keep track of key deadlines.
Q Can a defendant convert a Part 8 claim into a Part 7 claim?
A defendant can object to the use of Part 8, and the court has power under the Civil Procedure Rules to order that the claim continue as if it had been started under Part 7. This typically happens when a genuine factual dispute emerges that Part 8 is not well suited to resolve. If that happens, the court will usually give directions about statements of case, disclosure, and witness evidence.
Q What evidence do I need to file with Form N208?
Your written evidence, normally in the form of a witness statement with a statement of truth, should be filed and served either with the claim form or shortly afterwards under the timetable set out in the rules. The evidence should set out the factual background, exhibit any relevant documents, and explain why the court should grant the remedy sought. The quality of this evidence is often decisive in Part 8 matters.
Q How much does it cost to issue a Part 8 claim?
The court issue fee depends on the nature of the claim and, where relevant, the amount in dispute. Fees are reviewed from time to time, so check the current figures on gov.uk before you file. You may be eligible for Help with Fees if you are on a low income or certain benefits, which can reduce or remove the fee entirely.
Q Can I use Form N208 for a money claim?
Generally no. Straightforward money claims, including debts and damages where there may be a factual dispute, are issued under Part 7 using Form N1. Part 8 and Form N208 are reserved for claims where the main issue is a question of law or construction, or where a rule specifically directs the use of Part 8. Using the wrong form can lead to delays and additional costs.
Sources
This guide is based on primary UK law and official guidance.
- Guidance · UK GovForm N208 on gov.ukgov.uk
- Guidance · HMCTSCivil Procedure Rules, Part 8 (Alternative Procedure for Claims)justice.gov.uk
- Guidance · UK GovHelp with Court and Tribunal Feesgov.uk
Legal disclaimer
This article is for general information only. It is a tool to help you find your way — not legal advice, and not a substitute for speaking to a qualified adviser about your situation.